Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 January 2024
152. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his plans for the Defence Forces to participate in any overseas missions currently precluded by the neutrality protection provided by the triple lock; the details of any proposals received or made in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2762/24]
View answerThe Government has no plans for the Defence Forces to participate in any further overseas missions at present.
However, given the insecurity in international security in the world today, we need to be able to deploy our Defence Forces when required to overseas peacekeeping and crisis management operations speedily and with agility.
In terms of the criteria used to determine whether Ireland should participate in a mission, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. When considering any particular request, the following factors are taken into account:
• An assessment of whether a peacekeeping operation is the most appropriate response;
• Consideration of how the mission relates to the priorities of Irish foreign policy;
• The degree of risk involved;
• The extent to which the required skills or characteristics relate to Irish capabilities;
• The existence of realistic objectives and a clear mandate, which has the potential to contribute to a political solution.
• Whether the operation is adequately resourced.
• The level of existing commitments to peacekeeping operations and security requirements at home.
