Michael Moynihan
Question:154. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if EU security issues were discussed at the December 2018 EU General Affairs Council meeting. [53436/18]
View answerTuesday, 15 January 2019
Questions (154)
Written answers
The Minister of State for European Affairs, Helen McEntee T.D., represented Ireland at the General Affairs Council on 11 December 2018 which prepared the draft Conclusions for the European Council meeting on 13-14 December.
These welcomed progress made in the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, including reform of EU Civilian CSDP, a longstanding ambition of Ireland. It also reflected the steps that have been taken in the implementation of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO); of the European Defence Fund; and of EU-NATO cooperation. In regard to the latter, it is important to note that such cooperation fully respects the decision making autonomy of both organisations and does not prejudice the specific character of the security and defence policy of any Member States. Ministers also discussed the implementation of the Joint Action Plan on disinformation, aspects of which also have a bearing on security issues.