Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:253 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the estimated full year cost for Ireland's participation in Partnership for Peace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17776/99]
Written Answers. - Partnership for Peace.
Participation in PfP is voluntary and is based on the principle of self differentiation, that is, the state selects for itself specific areas in which it wishes to participate. In Ireland's case, selected activities involving the Defence Forces will be in the areas of co-operation in peacekeeping and humanitarian, etc., tasks in line with our traditional experience in these areas. The costs arising in any particular year will, therefore, depend on the nature and level of the activities undertaken.
As my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs outlined in the House in reply to questions today, certain staffing and administrative costs arising from participation in PfP will fall to be met from both the Vote for Foreign Affairs and the Vote for Defence. Estimates of these costs are currently being prepared.