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Defence Forces Operations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 November 2018

Wednesday, 21 November 2018

Questions (79)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

79. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the recent statement by Chancellor Merkel in relation to the establishment of an EU army; and the steps he will take to ensure Irish neutrality is protected. [48346/18]

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Written answers

As stated in the Lisbon Treaty protocols, the Lisbon Treaty does not provide for the creation of an EU Army. There is no legal basis for the establishment of an EU army, and there is no proposal set out to change this.

Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security is a national competence and that any decisions, including any deepening of EU cooperation, require unanimity. Ireland continues to have a strong and equal voice on defence issues within the EU institutions.

Any decision to further deepen EU cooperation in the area of security and defence with a move to a common defence would require a unanimous decision of the European Council. In addition, any decision by Ireland to participate in any such Common Defence would require the approval of the people in a referendum. Ireland remains constitutionally debarred from participation in any such EU common defence given our Constitutional provisions and the Lisbon Treaty protocols.

At a time when the world has become a more unstable and insecure place, Ireland remains fully supportive of the efforts of EU member States, within the Treaty provisions, to improve the Union's capacity to respond to the challenging security environment, including in the area of defence.

These efforts are been advanced through the implementation of the EU Global Strategy of Foreign Policy and Security, the Commissions European Defence Action Plan and through enhanced cooperation with international partners.

Ireland's approach to all of these areas will as always be both constructive and realistic and we remain strong supporters of initiatives which improve the capacity of the EU to contribute to international peace and security, particularly in support of the UN and to delivering the necessary capabilities, both civil and military in this regard.

While we choose to remain neutral, this is not out of any lack of interest in issues underpinning conflicts or any isolationist stance. Ireland’s approach to international relations is founded on full and active engagement in the international community in support of international peace and security and the rule of law. We follow and will continue to follow this policy approach - militarily neutral but fully engaged – because, as committed members of the United Nations, we subscribe fully to the principles set out in the UN Charter.

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