John V. Farrelly
Ceist:66 Mr. Farrelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views and policy on European controls on licensed arms production agreements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17805/00]
Written Answers. - Arms Industry.
There are no harmonised EU controls on licensed production agreements related to arms manufacturing. However, any transfer of technology related to military items specified in the Control of Exports Order, 1996, would be subject to national export licence requirements. Similarly, an export of any specially designed parts or components related to the licensed production of military goods would also be controlled.
Although Ireland does not have an arms industry, a very small number of companies manufacture products and components which are primarily for military use and, as such, are subject to export control. While I have no reason to believe Irish companies avail of licensed production agreements to avoid our export controls system, I would, in principle, support the introduction of uniform controls on licensed production within the EU.