The UN has taken control of the peacekeeping mission in Chad from the EU.
From now on, the 440 Irish troops serving there will wear the traditional UN blue beret but there will be little change in their operations.
Irish soldiers have been part of the international mission known as EUFOR for over a year. An Irish officer, Lt Gen Pat Nash, was its operational commander.
Most of the participating countries - including Ireland - will continue to serve. The UN will pay more than half the cost of their involvement.
The force of up to 5,000 troops will now be known as MINURCAT and its deputy commander is also Irish - Brigadier General Gerald Aherne.
Colonel Brian Reade assumes the role of Chief Operations Officer for the mission.
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea stressed Ireland's role in developing EU peacekeeping, humanitarian and crisis management operations in support of the UN.
The Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Dermot Earley, commended General Nash for establishing and leading a credible, professional and impartial force with distinction.
General Nash, who was based in France, will now commence winding down his HQ in Paris and is to return home in late May or early June.
