Dermot Ahern
Question:51 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs whether Ireland will join the Partnership for Peace; if so, when; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21539/96]
Written Answers. - Partnership for Peace.
I have outlined on a number of occasions in this House, most recently in some detail on 31 October, and in my discussions with the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs on this issue, the steps to be followed in adhering to Partnership for Peace and the benefits that such participation would entail for Ireland. It remains the position that decision on participation would be subject to a motion on the terms and scope of any participation by Ireland being approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas.
I have previously stated, and I reaffirm my view, that it is in Ireland's interests to participate in Partnership for Peace, which is a co-operative security initiative that now includes almost all members of the OSCE. The House will wish to be aware that Switzerland will join Partnership for Peace later today.