Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 16 September 2016
1942. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on a paper presented by the EU’s foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, to the German and French defence Ministers that sets out plans for closer EU defence co-operation and enhanced defence capabilities, in the context of a deteriorating security environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26095/16]
View answer1956. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on reports in the French and German press (details supplied) on calls by the French and German defence Ministers for closer EU military co-operation post Brexit, including measures such as a joint headquarters, a single EU budget for military research and procurement and the establishment of an EU military academy; if he supports such calls; if not, the steps he will take to oppose such developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26042/16]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1942 and 1956 together.
The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/ Vice-President of the Commission (HRVP), Ms Federica Mogherini, presented the new EU Global Strategy on Foreign and Security Policy (EUGS) at the European Council meeting in June. The European Council welcomed its presentation and invited the HRVP and the Council to take forward work on the Global Strategy.
HRVP Mogherini has indicated that a Roadmap for the implementation of the EU Global Strategy will be finalised by the middle of this month . It is expected that the Roadmap will contain several strands, including security and defence. The Roadmap will be considered by EU member states, including Ireland. Ireland will participate fully in this process. Ireland share s the views of other member states on the need for coherence in internal/external security policies and increased investment in addressing external conflicts through a range of instruments including diplomatic, economic development, peace support and crisis management tools. Ireland remains fully committed in these areas including through an active contribution to EU Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) as it has developed to date. We will continue to participate in the ongoing development of CSDP, as provided for in the EU Treaties, in support of the UN and international peacekeeping and crisis management.
In the context of future discussions by EU member States on the forthcoming Roadmap for the implementation of the EU Global Strategy, the German and French Ministers for Defence have prepared a Joint Paper setting out their priority areas. The priority areas outlined will be considered as part of the overall consideration by member States of future developments in the area of security and defence.
