Kilkenny soldiers left stranded in world trouble spot

As of 9am this morning (Wednesday), a number of Kilkenny soldiers remain stranded in one of the world's trouble spots since Monday.

Members of the 57th Infantry Group have been trying for three days to get home from the Golan Heights on the Syria/Israeli border following a six month deployment there as part of the United Nations Disengagement Observation Force (UNDOF).

Families in the city and county are distraught after a plane meant to carry troops home from Syria never left the ground and many had booked holidays to welcome their loved ones home at Dublin airport but their plans are now in ruins.

The Defence Forces has acknowledged how difficult it is for partners and children who have been left bitterly disappointed.

An army spokesman  said organising travel through Lebanon and Syria can be challenging at the best of times and that they are working to bring the local soldiers home as soon as possible.

UPDATE

Dáil confirms two weeks delay in Kilkenny soldiers returning home from UN duty - personnel delayed  returning home will get a €1,000 ex gratia payment in recognition of the disruption caused to them and their families.