Michael Ferris
Ceist:14 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Defence the process whereby the White Paper on Defence will be drawn up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15160/97]
Written Answers. - White Paper on Defence.
Proinsias De Rossa
Ceist:23 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Defence when the promised White Paper on Defence will be produced; and the plans, if any, he has for consultation with any of the Defence Forces representative bodies prior to its publication. [15066/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 23 together.
One of my first actions following my appointment as Minister for Defence was to announce my intention to publish a White Paper on Defence Policy. The preliminary work on drawing up this paper is under way. It is my intention to consult as fully and widely as possible with all interested parties.
The three Defence Forces Representative Associations — RACO, PDFORRA and RDFRA — have been informed that a White Paper on Defence Policy is being prepared and advised that they will be facilitated in making submissions.