The Programme for a Government of Renewal affirms the Government's intention to publish a White Paper on Foreign Policy. It is my intention that this White Paper should be published in the second quarter of this year.
The White Paper will cover all aspects of Ireland's foreign policy and the full range of international issues which affect our national interests. This includes the questions of defence and security that arise for this country in the post-cold war Europe, which I intend should be fully examined in the White Paper.
The Programme for a Government of Renwal clearly indicates that the White Paper "will spell out the principles that underpin Ireland's commitment toa peace, security, and co-operation". The programme also sets out the following as one of the guiding principles of the Government's foreign policy:
We will play a full part in the debate on Common Foreign and Security Policy, which will culminate during Ireland's Presidency of the EU in 1996. The White Paper will inform and encourage debate on all the issues involved.
It is my intention that the commitments which I have just outlined will be fully realised.