United Nations Memorial
This memorial garden is as the plaque says: DEDICATED TO THE IRISH CITIZENS WHO DIED IN THE SERVICE OF THE UNITED NATIONS - ERECTED BY THE IRISH UNITED NATIONS VETERANS ASSOCIATION -ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE OF IRELAND.
It was officially opened on 8th November 1998 by her Excellency Mary McAleese President of Ireland – The various plaques list the names of all the soldiers who have died, along with rank, date of death and country they were serving in.
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after the Second World War by 51 countries committed to maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations and promoting social progress, better living standards and human rights
Due to its unique international character, and the powers vested in its founding Charter, the Organization can take action on a wide range of issues, and provide a forum for its 193 Member States to express their views, through the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council and other bodies and committees.
The work of the United Nations reaches every corner of the globe. Although best known for peacekeeping, peacebuilding, conflict prevention and humanitarian assistance, there are many other ways the United Nations and its System (specialized agencies, funds and programmes) affect our lives and make the world a better place. The Organization works on a broad range of fundamental issues, from sustainable development, environment and refugees protection, disaster relief, counter terrorism, disarmament and non-proliferation, to promoting democracy, human rights, gender equality and the advancement of women, governance, economic and social development and international health, clearing landmines, expanding food production, and more, in order to achieve its goals and coordinate efforts for a safer world for this and future generations.
Ireland became a member of the United Nations in 1955. Since 1958, the Defence Forces have a continuous presence on peace support operations, mainly in the Middle East. However, in recent years, following the end of the cold war, Defence Forces personnel have also found themselves in many other parts of the globe as peacekeepers. Irish Defence Forces personnel have served in countries all over the world, including: Central America, Russia, the former Yugoslavia, Cambodia, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Namibia, Western Sahara, Liberia and East Timor.
Since 1978, a number of Defence Forces officers have served in different positions at UNHQ, New York. At present the Defence Forces provide two officers to the UN's Department of Peace Keeping Operations (DPKO).
Ireland's participation in peacekeeping operations has promoted a positive image of Ireland and its Defence Forces both within the international community at the United Nations and among all sides in the mission areas.
Unfortunately this service has not been without cost. To date 85 members of the Defence Forces have given their lives in the cause of world peace.