Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 March 2025
231. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the advice he has received on the crime of aggression and the risk to Irish troops on peacekeeping missions without a UN mandate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11316/25]
View answerWith regard to the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. The changing nature of demands and potential future mission profiles need to be considered in the context of assets and capabilities which can be made available by the Defence Forces for overseas deployment, given existing operational demands at home and overseas. Military advice in terms of security and risk assessments is also a significant part of the considerations.
'Crimes of aggression' is where individuals violating international law governing the use of force may be charged with the crime of aggression or crimes against peace under the UN Charter, and where matters relating to a UNSC veto can prevent same. Given that our Defence Forces are covered by Status of Forces Agreements in relation to their participation in UN, EU or NATO led missions, this issue does not arise.
However, as part of the Pre-legislative Scrutiny process on the General Scheme relating to the dispatch of members of the Defence Forces overseas ,as well as the various stages of the Bill in the Oireachtas, there will be many issues discussed and debated which may include the matter of 'crimes of aggression'.
