Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2024
55. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether there have been any discussions at an EU level in relation to introducing extra obligations on member states in relation to defence; whether Ireland has been a part of these discussions; and the stance Ireland has taken in the discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13034/24]
View answerIreland takes part in any EU discussions equally on the basis of its membership of the European Union, using the accepted respective Councils and Working Parties that fall from that, and governed by the Treaties underpinning the functioning of the European Union.
With regard to Defence, at its core, this remains a national competence, something borne out by the differing responses and actions taken by EU Member States in the aftermath of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. Furthermore, participation in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) does not prejudice the Security and Defence policy or obligations of any Member State.
Given that decision-making power in relation to Defence remain a national competence under the European Treaties, it remains a matter for Ireland to decide our own way forward. Ireland remains a strong supporter of CSDP however, and will remain fully engaged in all CSDP processes and will continue to contribute fully to the development of the Policy in order that we can influence its evolution.
Though broader EU policy in this regard evolves in response to circumstance - most particularly exemplified by the EU's response to Russia's continued aggression towards Ukraine - and as evidenced by the agreement of the Ukraine Assistance Fund under the European Peace Facility, and by the recent European Commission launch of its Communication of a Defence Industrial Strategy, any additional obligations proposed towards Member States must be mindful of the Treaties, and will be subject to negotiation and agreement by all Member States, including Ireland. Where any such proposals are made, they will be examined in full cognizance of Ireland's national policy in this regard.
