John Gormley
Question:87 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence his plans to amend the Defence Acts in order to facilitate Ireland's full participation in the EU's Rapid Reaction Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20463/02]
Written Answers. - Overseas Missions.
The legislative implications of participation by the Defence Forces in the EU headline goal were discussed between the Department of Defence, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Attorney General following the Government's decision in November 2000 to authorise commitment by Ireland of up to 850 members of the Defence Forces to the headline goal for the purpose of possible future Petersberg Tasks operations. The Minister for Defence was advised at that time that Ireland's political commitment to the EU headline goal did not give rise to any requirement to amend existing legislation. This remains the position.
As regards any political EU Petersberg Task operation, I reiterate the policy of the Government that Ireland will approach each mission on a case by case basis and will participate only in operations authorised by the UN as comprehended by the appropriate legislation, that is, the Defence Act, 1954, the Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act, 1960, and the Defence (Amendment) Act, 1993. This means that each mission will require the approval of the Government and this House.