Vol. 574 No. 3
32 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the establishment of a new EU operational military headquarters as proposed by Belgium, France and Germany; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25388/03]
Ireland recognises the need for the European Union to have effective planning and headquarters arrangements for crisis management operations. However, the proposal for an independent EU planning capability put forward by France, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg at their "mini-summit" on 29 April last, as well as other related ideas raised by partners, will require further discussion before decisions can be reached in this area. As a general principle, Ireland would be cautious about any proposals that could result in significantly increased military expenditure and, where feasible, we would favour minimising duplication of military resources and capabilities. In addition, we consider that any future proposals should be consistent with the nature of European Security and Defence Policy, ESDP, as it has developed to date. Any proposals should also be in accordance with agreed principles which govern the established framework for EU-NATO relations. Of central importance from Ireland's perspective are principles guaranteeing the autonomy of both organisations and preventing discrimination against any member of the EU. We also attach particular importance to proposals in the ESDP area being taken forward in an inclusive and transparent manner.
