Kiwi Troops Redundant In Iraq

Thursday, 16 September 2004, 11:29 am
Press Release: New Zealand First Party

New Zealand First defence spokesperson Ron Mark says he understands the Government’s decision to bring New Zealand troops home from Iraq.

The Defence Force is withdrawing its military engineering contingent this week as a result of escalating violence and increased security risk.

“This is a sensible decision, given that the soldiers have been unable to carry out the work they were sent to Basra to do because of the spread in violent attacks,” Mr Mark said.

“With the shortages in manpower the New Zealand Defence Force is facing back home, it is highly unlikely that we could have continued the commitment of the 60-strong contingent in Basra for much longer anyhow.

“The deteriorating security situation in Iraq has meant that our troops have been virtually redundant over there for the last five weeks and there is little point remaining there.

“It is obvious that the tragic situation created in Iraq will continue for a long time,” said Mr Mark.

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