Brave Irish troops serving in Syria have had their tour of duty extended, it has emerged.
The 130 Defence Forces soldiers, who had been due to return home this weekend, are now likely to stay in the war-torn region until the end of June.
The Irish troops are an integral part of the UN peacekeeping force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights.
Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín, praised the dedication of the troops but said: “While this is understandable in the current environment many of the troops have not seen their families for up to six months.
“Now there is a probability that they will be staying in Syria for a further three months.
“Irish troops are taxed at the higher rate of taxation –notwithstanding their bravery and service.
“Around the world, most governments refuse to tax their troops at the higher rate – as a token of their appreciation for their service in such dangerous and perilous environs.
“Not so the Irish government, who tax the monies paid to the troops by the UN at the higher rate of taxation – showing little respect for the service of our men and women in uniform.
“This is in addition to the already appalling facilities and rates of pay of our Defence Forces as a whole.”
The Meath West TD also insisted the Government should pay the troops a fair wage for their service.
