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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 2 Apr 2003

Vol. 564 No. 2

Written Answers - Defence Forces Policy.

Dan Boyle

Question:

76 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Defence the international obligations the Defence Forces are committed to observe as a result of the State's policy of military neutrality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9007/03]

In accordance with Ireland's policy of military neutrality, Ireland does not participate in a military alliance nor in any mutual defence pact with other nations. As such, there are no international obligations on the Defence Forces arising specifically from Ireland's policy of military neutrality.

Ireland has committed to providing 850 troops for peace support operations under the United Nations standby arrangements system, UNSAS. However, this arises out of Ireland's commitment to the United Nations rather than as a result of Ireland's policy of military neutrality. Moreover, any decision to participate in any peace support operation, is a matter for sovereign decision and would require UN authorisation, the agreement of the Government and the approval of this House. A similar situation applies in respect of Ireland's participation in any humanitarian or crisis management mission under the EU's European security and defence policy.
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