5. During 1997, the Committee approved 70 emergency MEDEVAC flights, while during 1996, 63 were approved.

They provide static site security, reconnaissance, security patrols, convoy escorts, checkpoints, and, where necessary, MEDEVAC and emergency evacuation.

Cases requiring specialist facilities are first stabilized and then transferred to the United Kingdom via the Royal Air Force Medevac system or to Montevideo in an emergency.

The two missions share responsibility for security along the border between Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo and, moreover, have established close cooperation on Medevac and safety matters.

The high number of block hours guaranteed to vendors during that period stemmed in part from concerns in the missions over availability of aircraft for unpredictable situations above and beyond normal mission requirements, including casualty evacuation and medical evacuation (CASEVAC MEDEVAC) emergency responsibilities.

3. Pursuant to paragraph 9 (e) of resolution 748 (1992), and at the suggestion of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tripoli, the Committee, at its 13th meeting, on 14 October 1992, approved special arrangements for emergency medical evacuation by air (MEDEVAC) from the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya. Instructions and procedures concerning the measures so approved by the Committee were transmitted to all States and international organizations on 16 October 1992.