Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 23 Oct 2003

Vol. 573 No. 2

Written Answers. - Export Controls.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

68 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps being taken to address the serious gaps in procedures for the monitoring and control of military exports highlighted in the report from economic consultants (details supplied) on export licensing for military and dual use goods; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24499/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. M. Ahern):

In Ireland, as in most developed countries, controls are applied to the export of military and dual-use goods (dual-use goods are goods which have both a civilian and military end use). These licensing systems generally reflect the need to comply with international obligations in relation to arms control, non-proliferation of weapons, and sanctions imposed on specific states.

Given the increasing focus which is being given to the necessity to strengthen strategic export control rules, it is important to ensure that Ireland's export controls are up to the best inter national standards. In this context, my Department asked Forfás to undertake a review of our strategic controls systems with a view to recommending how best we can modernise and strengthen them and ensure full compliance with Ireland's international obligations. Economic consultants have been commissioned by Forfás to carry out the review, which is being done in two phases.

Phase 1, the results of which were published in August, involved a short review of the current licensing system. It identified perceived gaps in operational procedures and a number of other issues requiring further consideration. Phase 2 constitutes a more detailed review of the licensing system. More precisely, the terms of reference set out three main tasks for phase 2 of the review. These are: a public consultation process, which has just been completed; discussions with Government Departments, agencies, international organisations, specialised agencies, users of the system and interested parties; and establishing international best practice.

The review is expected to be completed before the end of 2003.

Question No. 69 answered with Question No. 25.