Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2015
171. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he or any of his staff have discussed with the authorities in the United States of America the drone attacks by that country in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iraq; his views on these drone airstrikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17008/15]
View answerUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (commonly referred to as “drones”) are used for both civilian and military purposes. Under international law, there is no explicit prohibition on UAVs. Nevertheless, their use in armed conflict is subject to international humanitarian law. This sets specific requirements in relation to the use of force in armed conflict, including the principles of necessity, proportionality and distinction.
Outside of an armed conflict situation, human rights law must apply, including the prohibition on extrajudicial killings. Ireland and its partners in the EU are strongly and consistently opposed to extra-judicial killings. Not only are they contrary to international human rights law, they undermine the very concept of the rule of law, which is a primary element in the fight against terrorism. This principle applies regardless of the means used.
Every effort must be made to avoid civilian casualties and, therefore, any indiscriminate use of drones would clearly be contrary to international law. Together with our EU partners, we have regular discussions with the United States about the legal aspects of combating international terrorism, and the US authorities are well aware of our views on these issues.
