Written Answers. - Defence Forces Strength.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:
61
Mr. Durkan
asked the
Minister for Defence
if any increase in Army, Navy or Air Corps strength is contemplated arising from extra responsibilities and duties likely to arise from participation in the Partnership for Peace or UN peacekeeping missions; if it will be possible at this stage to identify the precise level and nature of Ireland's military involvement under each heading; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[9074/01]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:
107
Mr. Durkan
asked the
Minister for Defence
if he intends to increase the strength of the Army in anticipation of possible commitments arising from a combination of United Nations peacekeeping missions and potential responsibilities arising from Partnership for Peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[9270/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 107 together.
In the White Paper on Defence the Government decided the Defence Forces require a strength of 10,500 personnel, ready to fulfil current tasks at home and abroad. Having regard to the defence and security environment, the Government's policy for defence is aimed at ensuring the following requirements are met:
To maintain a military force structure that provides a basis for responding to any major change in Ireland's strategic circumstances in the medium to long-term, as well as demonstrating an appropriate commitment to national defence.
To maintain a military force structure capable of responding to requests to provide aid to the civil power and, in that context, contributing to the prevention of security challenges from abroad including terrorism and arms smuggling.
To fulfil Ireland's international and regional responsibilities arising from membership of the UN by providing a range of military capabilities that can effectively be employed to participate in a broad range of multinational peace support and humanitarian relief operations. Ireland has committed a maximum of 850 military personnel for UN service at any one time under the United Nations Stand-by Arrangements System, UNSAS.
To demonstrate Ireland's commitment to European security by having a suitable range of military capabilities that can be used to make appropriate contributions to regional security missions authorised by the UN.
In relation to the Air Corps, the Government decided that the State will not seek to commit Air Corps equipment resources to an overseas operation. In a situation where there are many demands on resources it would not be reasonable to participate beyond the domestic context.
Similarly, in relation to the Naval Service, the Government has decided that the emphasis will be on utilisation and development of the Naval Service to contribute to the maximum to all of the State's requirements in the maritime domain and to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. Fishery protection activities account for more than 90% of Naval Service operations.
Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 38
Question No. 63 answered with Question No. 59
Question No. 64 answered with Question No. 52
Question No. 65 answered with Question No. 41
Question No. 66 answered with Question No. 27.
Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 56.
