I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 99 together.
I have already answered a number of questions setting out my views on the situation in Yemen, and the actions which Ireland, the EU and UN are taking in this regard.
In relation to the specific question of an arms embargo, decisions at EU level to stop exports of arms require the agreement of all EU Member States. Although some have called for it, there is currently no consensus at EU level on an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia, or any member of the Coalition. I am aware that some Member States, including Germany, have decided to halt arms exports for the present.
For now, Irish efforts are concentrated on ensuring the effective implementation of Export Control Regimes and the implementation of the 2014 Arms Trade Treaty, which has been signed and ratified by all EU Member States, and requires States to assess the potential that arms exports could be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian or human rights law, and to consider measures to mitigate the risk of these violations.
I firmly believe that effective measures to monitor the trade of arms and other dual use goods are necessary to ensure that the highest standards in international arms controls are met, and to tackle the illicit trade in arms.
As a member of multiple disarmament and non-proliferation Treaties and Conventions, Ireland has a responsibility to ensure that adequate domestic controls are implemented.
All exports of goods from Ireland which are dual-use or have a military classification are subject to strict assessment on a case by case basis against the eight criteria contained in the EU Code of Conduct on Arms Exports. The Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation is the lead Department on issuing export licenses. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade plays a role in the assessment of export licenses for military rated and dual use goods, with the aim of ensuring that:
The goods are destined for the country and end-user as stated on the licence application;
The stated end-user will use the goods for a legitimate purpose, as detailed in the end-user certificate.
That there is no risk the goods may diverted to end users of concern, or that the goods may be used for human rights suppression.
Ireland will continue to assess all military rated and dual use goods license applications on a case by case base, ensuring compliance with our international obligations.
