Bernard J. Durkan
Question:175 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which he or the military authorities are participating in PFP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5012/03]
Written Answers. - Partnership for Peace.
The details of Ireland's participation in PfP to date is set out in our three individual partnership programmes – IPPs – copies of which have been lodged in the Library. Activities consist of training courses, seminars, workshops, conferences, staff exercises and table top exercises.
Ireland's third IPP, covering the period 2003-04, has been completed in consultation with the Departments of Foreign Affairs, the Environment and Local Government, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Health and Children and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
As provided for in the presentation document for PfP, Ireland also participates in the PfP planning and review process – known as PARP. In common with the other EU neutrals, Ireland is using the PARP process in connection with planning for the Petersberg Tasks. The scope of our involvement in PARP is focused on enhancing inter-operability and familiarity with operating procedures in a multinational environment and improving the capabilities Ireland has offered in the context of the EU Headline Goal.
Question No. 176 answered with Question No. 165.