Micheál Martin
Ceist:6. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the Defence Forces mission in Mali; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13265/13]
Other Questions
Overseas Missions
Mick Wallace
Ceist:7. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on the participation of Irish troops in the EU training mission in Mali; the cost of deploying Irish troops to Mali; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13274/13]
Clare Daly
Ceist:8. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding Irish Defence Forces personnel being deployed to Mali. [13277/13]
John Browne
Ceist:18. Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update in the Defence Forces' mission to Mali; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13242/13]
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:21. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on the deployment of a number of Irish troops in a joint mission with the British Army personnel on a 500 strong EU military training mission to Mali; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13152/13]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 6 to 8, inclusive, 18 and 21 together.
On 26 February 2013, the Government approved the deployment of approximately eight members of the Permanent Defence Force to the EU training mission in Mali, which has been authorised by the United Nations under UN Security Council Resolution 2071 (2012), to provide military training to the Malian armed forces.
The Irish personnel to be deployed in Mali have completed their pre-deployment training. The exact date of the Irish deployment to Mali is yet to be confirmed. However, we expect this date to be confirmed by the European Union on 15 March 2013. It is expected that Irish personnel will deploy into the mission area around 23 March 2013.
The Irish contribution to the mission will comprise three officers and five non-commissioned officers. One officer will deploy to the mission headquarters in Bamako and another to the training camp headquarters. The remaining six personnel who constitute the Defence Forces training team will also deploy to the training camp in Koulikoro and will form part of a joint infantry training team with the United Kingdom armed forces.
All troop contributors to the new mission will be responsible for their own costs. The estimated cost to the Defence Force of eight personnel will amount to approximately €632,000 for the duration of the mission’s mandate of 15 months. This figure includes Ireland’s contribution of €120,000 to the common costs of the mission.
I will be brief as I know other Members want to comment on this issue. I assume all Members in this House are proud of the role our Defence Forces have played in a number of international fora around the world but I know also there is a degree of unease in the country about this particular mission. For that reason I support Deputy Mac Lochlainn's proposal that while it is not necessary to get the approval of the House for this mission to be undertaken because the members are fewer than 12, it might be useful to have a debate on it when the House resumes following the Easter recess. It need not be a lengthy debate. The Minister of State might raise with the Minister, Deputy Shatter, the question of finding time to discuss people's genuine concerns about the allegations in the public domain regarding the Malian forces, and in particular the way they have dealt with the Arab and Tuareg families with whom they have come into contact. However, I am sure the Irish mission in Mali will be a positive and constructive one and that the influence of Irish officers on the men and women in the Malian army will be positive.
I reiterate that we are in the country on a United Nations mission. The personnel will not be involved in combat operations. The mission will consist of 250 instructors and approximately 200 additional military personnel to provide support and security. The role of personnel deployed to the mission will be to provide military training to the armed forces, as well as training and advice on command and control logistics, human resources, international humanitarian law, and the protection of civilians and human rights.
The other important impact of the EU involvement, and Ireland's involvement, is significant progress on the political aspects of the crisis. The EU's collective focus has been on ensuring that the Malian leaders adopt a political transition roadmap, and that has been successfully delivered. This roadmap sets out a time line towards free and fair elections in July. It sets an immediate path for the return to full civilian government, without the involvement of the military, and gives a commitment to reform of the armed forces. The Malian Government is also committed to the important objective of a national and inclusive dialogue to ensure that the legitimate interests and concerns of minorities such as those Deputy Ó Fearghaíl mentioned, notably, the Tuareg communities in the north, are addressed.
I, too, have serious reservations about any of our Army personnel being deployed in Mali. Time will prove that we might not be proud of our involvement in the country. I would be wary because as the Minister of State said, the current group in charge, which came to power by a military coup, has not behaved very well, as pointed out by the other Deputies. The leader of that group, who was trained in human rights in the United States, recently arrested the editor of a Malian newspaper for criticising the amount of money he was getting.
There are question marks over our support for the French on this mission. The French would not be going into this country if there was not some material gain for them. We all know that uranium is in great supply in Mali. France has done very well from exploiting the region, and it would be keen to keep those channels open. This is not what we should be doing.
The Minister said that democracy will be restored in the summer but restored to what? There was no democracy before the coup when the Tuaregs in the north were being persecuted. I would be surprised if we are impressed with the outcome of the elections in the summer.
The key issue is that this country is in serious strife. There has been a coup d'état and human rights abuses on both sides. We have a United Nations resolution that we should try to help resolve that matter. We have a commitment from the existing Government in Mali to have free and fair elections. It is worthwhile being involved in that, and I am proud of Ireland's involvement in support of that mission. None of our troops will be combatants, but they will be training and working to ensure that issues relating to international law and the laws relating to armed conflict are fully recognised. I have no doubt that the United Nations will also ensure that whatever international jurisprudence can apply in terms of bringing anybody who violates human rights before the International Criminal Court or any other court, will apply. However, it would be wrong for this country not to bring about peace in a land where there is so much trouble and so many refugees.
The problem is that they will not be bringing peace to the country because wars such as the one in Mali have never built a solid and democratic state. On the contrary, they have served to fuel separatism, failed states, armed militia and lawlessness. It is ironic that the Minister has leaned on the United Nations resolution a number of times to support Ireland's involvement.
One of the reasons the situation in Mali developed is the United Nations resolution on Libya which was supposedly designed to protect civilians. It was used and abused by NATO to take sides in a civil war which has now spilled over into and had consequences for Mali. Libya is now in turmoil. It has imploded. The Tuaregs who served in Gadaffi's army took their weapons to northern Mali to take on a corrupt army. After they left, the Islamic militants moved in. Behind this instability is the quest for resources including uranium. It is another scramble for Africa. The EU is taking sides in a civil war and is taking part in a scramble for resources in Africa.
The sending by Ireland of small numbers of Defence Forces members to these countries is becoming a habit. We saw it in Afghanistan, Somalia and Chad. If fewer than 12 members go, there is no requirement to have a discussion in the Dáil. I ask the Minister of State, Deputy O'Dowd, to convey to the Minister our desire to have debates on these issues. The Government cannot evade the triple lock by sending fewer than 12 people. These are serious issues with serious consequences. The Minister of State said that this escapade is to cost us more than €500,000, moneys which would be far better spent on other causes. I guarantee it will not bring peace to that region.
There is no meeting of minds here. The strong view of the Government is that this is an international peace mission. It is creating peace and free and fair elections. It is concentrated on ensuring there is a democratic government in that country and that all minorities are included in whatever government is elected. That is our job and I am very proud of it. I cannot accept that Deputy Daly's arguments hold any water. Our intervention and the intervention of the United Nations is about lives being saved, human rights violators being brought to justice and a new democratic regime whereby every citizen has a vote. It is about making sure there is a safe, peaceful, democratic government in that country. Anything less than that would lead to increasing strife, civil war and other abuses.
I would be all for saving lives too if we could. The Minister of State knows that after the intervention in Libya the number of citizens who lost their lives went from 2,000 to 30,000. The Minister might say that was worth it to get Gadaffi but I disagree with 28,000 lives for one life. They went into Afghanistan saying they would civilise it and deal with opium but look at the state of it now. We must read our history. If we look at the past ten years alone, we can see what has resulted from western intervention in other states. It has been a disaster.
Speakers have brought up Libya. It is clear to everybody that Colonel Gadaffi's government supported the Lockerbie bombers. We know what abuses happened there.
Look at the country now.
It cannot legitimately be argued that bringing a country to peace and democracy is not a good thing.
What democracy? It is not there.
One cannot support the type of regime operated by Colonel Gadaffi and people like him and the crimes they commit.
Are you in favour of regime change?
Deputy Mac Lochlainn should have indicated a question.
On a point of order, are you in favour of regime change?
Deputy, could you ask a question?
Just to be clear, Minister, are you saying you are in favour of regime change?
I am saying that Colonel Gadaffi-----
Are you saying that regime change is a policy of the Government?
Let us be clear.
Let us be clear about this now.
Final answer, Minister.
Let us be very clear, Deputy. You brought up Colonel Gadaffi, I did not.
I brought up Libya, the country of millions of citizens.
Libya with Colonel Gadaffi. The facts are that the IRA semtex explosives came from Colonel Gadaffi.
Yes. What is your Government's foreign affairs policy?
You and people belonging to you know all about that.
They should have sent another Minister here today.
Deputy, please.
And that is it.
We need another Minister. What is your Government's policy on regime change?
We have to move on to Question No. 9 in the name of Deputy Jonathan O'Brien. It is taken with other questions.
Those comments will have to be answered. Outrageous statements.
You are outrageous.
Outrageous statements on regime change which defy Ireland's historical policy on neutrality.
Army Equitation School
Jonathan O'Brien
Ceist:9. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Defence the number of persons paid more than €80,000, more than €100,000 and more than €120,000 in the Army Equitation School; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13160/13]
Niall Collins
Ceist:14. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the future of the Army Equitation School; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13248/13]
Gerry Adams
Ceist:33. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Defence the cost of the Army Equitation School for each of the past ten years; the cost of its members' trips abroad during each of those years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13159/13]
I propose to take Questions Nos 9, 14 and 33 together.
I confirm that no member of the Army Equitation School is paid in excess of €80,000 per annum. The costs associated with running the school since 2006, including the cost of its participation at international events, are set out in the following tabular statement. The cost of running the school in 2012 was €2.2 million. This information was gathered from the management information framework system which has been in place in the Department of Defence since 2006. Consequently, detailed figures for 2003 to 2005 are not readily available.
The mission of the Army Equitation School is to promote the Irish horse through its participation in international competition at the highest level. The school has discharged this task with considerable distinction down through the years. Through its participation and numerous successes in equitation events at home and abroad, it has successfully promoted the qualities of the Irish horse. The Army Equitation School is an emblematic feature of the Defence Forces. Army riders competing on Irish-bred horses provide an instantly recognisable symbol of Ireland at prestigious international events. There are no plans to make changes to the operation of the school.
Army Equitation School Costs
|
Year |
Total Cost (including salaries) |
Foreign Subsistence Costs (included in the Total Cost) |
|
2006 |
€ 2,473,686 |
€ 97,956 |
|
2007 |
€ 2,528,642 |
€ 133,710 |
|
2008 |
€ 2,331,585 |
€ 167,254 |
|
2009 |
€ 2,259,273 |
€ 85,702 |
|
2010 |
€ 2,141,602 |
€ 104,828 |
|
2011 |
€ 2,158,341 |
€ 77,929 |
|
2012 |
€ 2,227,167 |
€ 94,946 |
Promoting the Irish horse is all lovely and fine but the concern here relates to recent reports about practices in the school. Can the Minister of State provide clarification on the wage scales and overseas travel allowances about which we have asked? We need the information because there has been public concern about practices in the school and we need answers.
The issues raised in the parliamentary questions, including Question No. 33 by Deputy Gerry Adams, relate to matters of fact and I do not know why the information should not be provided. I have the statistic on the total prize money won. I have no doubt the House is entitled to the information it seeks on expenditure. While it is not included in the reply provided, it will have to be given to the Deputies as soon as possible. I will ask the Department to furnish the information as quickly as possible. The key point about the school is that it puts Ireland up high in its international participation in sport. We have had some significant and wonderful Army riders who carried the flag for Ireland over many decades in international and national events. We are all very proud of them. I am happy to ensure the details of expenditure sought will be made available.
I rise simply to commend the Minister on his response and his assurance that the future of the equitation school is secure. I commend all of those who have been involved in the school over the years. It has been an outstanding example of the positive contribution the Defence Forces can make to the country as a whole and, in particular, to the bloodstock industry and the excellence of the Irish horse. The school has done work that has been of enormous economic value to the sport horse sector and constantly and continuously boosted national morale through its outstanding achievements in many locations throughout the world. If the State has incurred expense in sending Army riders to showjumping events internationally, every penny was justified.
The Army in general and the equitation school in particular have no record of mismanagement or abuse of public moneys. As far as I know, they have been always effective and frugal in the way they go about their business. I wish them many years of continued success.
I do not know if there is a need for a response to that.
I agree absolutely with Deputy Ó Fearghaíl. The school does a very good job and long may it continue to fly our flag in international competition. It is very good for the horse industry also.
European Defence Agency
Billy Kelleher
Ceist:10. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Defence the way he proposes to develop capabilities in support of Common Security and Defence Policy and freedom, security and justice through enhanced co-operation between the European Defence Agency and the European Commission in the field of research and innovation in the security sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261/13]
One of the Ireland’s priorities in the defence arena during our Presidency of the Council of the European Union is the development of capabilities in support of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, CSDP, through enhanced co-operation between the European Defence Agency and the European Commission in the field of research and innovation in the security sector. The European Commission has a role via its regulatory function and wants to reinforce competitiveness in the defence market and help member states get better value for money. Given the cuts in defence budgets throughout Europe, duplication of capability development is no longer an option. Therefore, collaboration on equipment programmes between the European Defence Agency and the Commission and other relevant agencies, is being progressed.
To this end, in 2011, the Commission task force on defence industries and markets was established. The aim of the task force is to explore different policy options available to the Commission to strengthen the European defence equipment market and further enhance the competitiveness of the defence industry. The task force operates in full collaboration with the European Defence Agency and the European external action service. The task force has identified three priority areas for advancement, namely, industrial policy, research and innovation, and the Internal Market. Working with the European Commission, the aim is to develop research and innovation synergies in areas of dual use technology such as space, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and cyber defence.
European defence experts will gather in Brussels on 21 March for the European Defence Agency annual conference. Will the Minister for Defence, Deputy Shatter, be in attendance at that event? Can the Minister of State tell us the role Ireland plays in research and innovation in the security sector? Is it expanding and is this an area the Government is looking to grow as a research area?
A recent European Defence Agency event on resilient threat management in 2013, a partnership between the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union and the European Defence Agency, took stock of the efforts dedicated to countering improvised explosive devices, while pointing in the direction of the future. According to the reply to a recent parliamentary question to the Minister for Defence, there has been a significant increase in the number of callouts of the members of the Defence Forces to tackle explosive devices found around the country. In 2010, there were 53 callouts for viable improvise explosive devices, 70 in 2011, 96 in 2012 and 21 to date in 2013. It appears these monstrous devices are growing in number and our Defence Forces are being called upon to deal with them. Does the Minister of State have an idea why there is an increase in this type of activity and what plans the Department has to address it?
The activity of the Army in such cases is in aid of the civilian power and to deal with explosive devices due to criminal gangs North and South, some of whom are involved in drugs. It is important the Army has the best possible training and equipment. In the procurement of any new technology, it is important we get the best possible deal. One of the main issues is to develop synergy in funding civil and military goods, developing the technology and making sure the people dealing with these devices are safe and trained in such a way that our people, such as civilians, are not injured or killed as a result of the devices going off.
Defence Forces Operations
Seamus Kirk
Ceist:11. Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the Irish Defence Forces EUTM for Somalia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13263/13]
Dara Calleary
Ceist:31. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a progress report on the Irish presence in the EUTM Somalia, EU-led training mission in Uganda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13246/13]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 31 together.
On 7 April 2010, the EU launched a military training mission in Somalia to contribute to strengthening the transitional federal Government and the institutions of Somalia. This support continues to take place within the framework of the EU's comprehensive engagement in Somalia, with a view to responding to the priority needs of the Somali people and its Government and to stabilising Somalia. Training has been provided in Uganda in close collaboration with the Ugandan Defence Forces due to the political and security situation in Somalia. Following Government approval, the Defence Forces have been serving with EU training mission in Somalia since April 2010. Ireland took over operational command of the mission in August 2011, with the appointment of Colonel Michael Beary of the Defence Forces. In December 2012, the Government approved continued participation in the mission for a further period of one year to December 2013. Ireland currently has ten personnel serving with the mission.
I wish Brigadier General Gerald Aherne success. He is currently leading that mission. We were told last month that the EU was planning to gradually move the mission's training activities from Uganda to Mogadishu. There was a growing sense that it was a safe initiative to take. Can the Minister of State provide an update on whether it is going ahead? What criteria do the Defence Forces have for making that decision? Does the Department consider, at this point, it constitutes an acceptable level of risk for the training operation to take up a base near Mogadishu?
I am happy to bring the Deputy's comments to the attention of the Minister. The brief I have does not comment on that particular aspect.
European Defence Capabilities
Brendan Smith
Ceist:12. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Defence the discussions he has had with his EU partners with regard to collaboration in the provision of defence capabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13255/13]
During each European Union Presidency, one formal and one informal meeting of Defence Ministers is held. There is no separate Defence Ministers' Council within the EU Council of Ministers. The formal meetings are held in Brussels or Luxembourg at the invitation of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the informal meeting in the country holding the Presidency. The agenda at the meetings varies according to the priorities of the European External Action Service and topical subjects or issues that have recently arisen. The issue of collaboration in defence capabilities is a recurring theme during these meetings.
At this meeting, the chief executive of the European Defence Agency and the European External Action Service update Ministers on its activities and initiatives. My colleague, the Minister for Defence, and his Department fully co-operate with the agency through ministerial steering board meetings and other fora.
The agency has developed pooling and sharing as a way of enhancing military capabilities and ensuring co-operation in these capabilities. In November 2012, Ministers adopted a code of conduct that proposed a number of concrete actions to mainstream this pooling and sharing initiative in member states, thus leading to co-operation in the provision of defence capabilities. These actions would be only implemented on a national and voluntary basis.
I thank the Minister of State for his response. This issue arises from statements from the Minister last month, when he told us that in addressing the impact of the financial crisis on defence, including collaboration in the provision of defence capabilities, pooling and sharing was a priority. What defence capabilities does the Minister of State regard as appropriate for pooling and sharing? Does collaboration in the provision of defence capabilities imply a greater collaboration in European defence policy? Is it the Minister of State's view that Ireland should not only be part of the European security and defence architecture but among the architects helping to design these systems to meet our needs in the future?
A number of principles apply and allow for co-operation to be enhanced. These include political will and commitment, cost-effectiveness, flexibility between groupings of two or more, usability and availability. The code of conduct is voluntary and non-binding, respecting the national defence policies of individual member states. As such, it does not create any issues for Ireland.
Ireland participates in a number of projects. We lead the project on the naval training initiative, whose aim is to seek and exploit opportunities in the area of naval training. The aim of the maritime surveillance project is to achieve better informed operational decision making through an improved recognised maritime picture through data, information and intelligence sharing. Spain is leading the project on training in counter-improvised explosive devices in which Ireland participates. The aim is to address training in all situations and at all levels. The final project deals with chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protection and the scope ranges from the identification of emerging technology to protection as an operational capability, aimed at developing detection, identification, decontamination and medical counter-measures.
The Minister for Defence is keen to explore all aspects of this initiative as an alternative solution to retain, enhance and acquire vital military capabilities in a time when prudent use of scarce finance is required.
Overseas Missions
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:13. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence his views on recent comments by the NATO Secretary General, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, on his visit to Dublin when he stated that he hoped that the Irish Defence Forces would participate or co-operate in NATO-led projects and missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13153/13]
The Secretary General of NATO, Mr. Anders Fogh Rasmussen, visited Dublin on 12 and 13 February this year. He did so at the invitation of the EU High Representative and the Minister, Deputy Shatter, to participate in the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers, which was held at Dublin Castle, as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council 2013. During his visit Mr. Rasmussen expressed his appreciation for the co-operation NATO has had with Ireland since we joined the Partnership for Peace in 1999. He paid tribute to the contribution Ireland made to UN-led peacekeeping missions and to UN-mandated missions which are led by regional organisations such as NATO and the EU.
Participation in overseas peacekeeping missions is a key element of Ireland’s foreign policy and has been an important dimension in meeting Ireland’s international obligations as a member of the UN and the EU. With the increasing use of more robust Chapter VII missions-operations in the past number of years, the UN has turned to regional organisations to undertake and lead missions on its behalf. In effect the EU, the AU and NATO, together with other similar such organisations, are now major players in UN peacekeeping.
Additional information not given on the floor of the House
It should be noted that any decision by Ireland to participate in an overseas operation, which may be led by the EU, UN or NATO would be subject to our national sovereign decision-making procedures - the triple lock, that is, the UN mandate, Government and Dáil approval, where appropriate.
As the House will be aware, Ireland has been contributing Defence Forces personnel to UN mandated, NATO-led missions since 1997, when we contributed personnel to the NATO-led Stabilisation Force, SFOR, in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Our forces have and continue to serve in Kosovo and Afghanistan.
As members of Partnership for Peace, PfP, Ireland participates in PfP’s planning and review process. PARP. As part of this process, Ireland has adopted a range of partnership goals aimed at assisting Ireland to meet its UN-EU commitments in the areas of counter improvised explosive devices, C-IED, cyber security, network enabled services, etc. Membership of PfP has allowed the Defence Forces to gain access to NATO standards, which are internationally-recognised as representing best practice in military and related matters such as operations, procurement, training, civilian co-operation, etc. The Defence Forces participation in PARP will continue as part of our engagement in Partnership for Peace.
The Minister of State will appreciate that the comments made by the Secretary General of NATO when he was here were insensitive at best. Ireland has a proud history of neutrality. Our Defence Forces have served across the world under blue helmet operations. Our people have played a leading role in conflict resolution on an ongoing basis, and that is our position. The Secretary General knows that very well. He was here because we have the EU Presidency and he should have been respectful of our neutrality. I am disappointed the Government has yet to publicly rebuke him. Has its members privately rebuked him? Have they complained to his office that it was disrespectful that he would be on some kind of a recruitment exercise?
It must increasingly be asked as to what is the point of NATO. It was about the Cold War between the USSR and the United States and two different world views. That is all over, apparently, and we have the United Nations which is supposed to be the body that is responsible for conflict resolution. What is NATO for, what is it about, and how dare its Secretary General come here and say that we should join it, rather than respect our neutrality? I want to get the Minister of State's on-the-record response to that. Has the Government formally protested about what the secretary general said?
On the record, I have the Secretary General's speech and he did not make the comments the Deputy attributed to him.
There were reported in the media.
I am referring to a speech he made and he did not comment on that. I want to make it very clear that any participation in overseas peacekeeping missions is a key element of our foreign policy. Any time we get involved it is because we are fulfilling our international obligations as a member of the United Nations and the EU. Any decision by Ireland to participate in an overseas operation, which may be led by the EU, UN or NATO, would be subject to our national sovereign decision-making procedures - the triple lock, that is, the UN mandate, Government and Dáil approval, where appropriate.
As the House will be aware, Ireland has been contributing Defence Forces personnel to UN mandated, NATO-led missions since 1997, when we contributed personnel to the NATO-led Stabilisation Force, SFOR, in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Our forces have and continue to serve in Kosovo and Afghanistan.
As members of Partnership for Peace, PfP, Ireland participates in its planning and review process, PARP. As part of this process, Ireland has adopted a range of partnership goals aimed at assisting Ireland to meet its UN-EU commitments in the areas of counter improvised explosive devices, C-IED, cyber security, network enabled services, etc. Membership of PfP has allowed the Defence Forces to gain access to NATO standards, which are internationally-recognised as representing best practice in military and related matters such as operations, procurement, training and civilian co-operation. The Defence Forces participation in PARP will continue as part of our engagement in Partnership for Peace.
The Minister of State will note that the question refers to the secretary general's recent comments, not his speech. I note on a report on the The Irish Times website that the Secretary General of NATO has invited the Irish people to join NATO - that the doors would be open for them to join. I repeat, has a complaint been made to his office? Has the Minister for Defence either publicly or privately rebuked him for his insensitive comments that were disrespectful to our position on neutrality?
Any NATO-led operation in which we are involved must be UN-authorised and whether it is led by the NATO, EU or AU, we participate on the basis of a United Nations authorised resolution and it is only on that basis that we get involved.
Question No. 14 answered with Question No. 9.
Common Foreign and Security Policy
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:15. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which he and or his Department interacts with EU and UN colleagues in the context of European Defence and security issues; if his EU colleagues have expressed any preferences in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13280/13]
Since the coming into force of the Lisbon treaty, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, now conducts the Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy assisted by the European External Action Service.
During each European Union Presidency one formal and one informal meeting of Defence Ministers is held. As part of Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council 2013, my colleague, the Minister for Defence, Deputy Shatter, prioritised a number of areas including enhancing EU-UN relations, in particular, through EU engagement and participation in UN peacekeeping.
The Minister for Defence hosted a very successful and well attended seminar in Dublin Castle on this subject. Speakers from the EU, NATO, the UN and, for the first time, the African Union as well as academia gave informative presentations to more than 120 delegates who attended from all over Europe. This seminar informed the follow-up discussion at the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers who recognised the primacy of the UN in the maintenance of international peace and security and the requirement for the EU to work hand in hand with the UN. The attendance at the informal meeting of EU Ministers for Defence including, for the first time, the UN represented by the under-secretary general at the department of peacekeeping operations also has cemented this priority into the thinking of the EU. At the informal meeting a number of follow-up work strands were identified and these will be progressed with the European External Action Service.
Additional information not given on the floor of the House
In regard to the informal meeting of Defence Ministers that was held in Dublin, the Minister for Defence chaired it on behalf of Baroness Catherine Ashton. Discussions covered a range of issues including the upcoming European Council on Defence, Mali, the Horn of Africa and partnerships between the EU and the United Nations. Ministers also had the benefit of the presence of the under-secretary general in the Department of peacekeeping operations for the first time at an EU Defence Ministers meeting.
Partnerships, in particular, between the EU and the United Nations were the final item for discussion at the informal meeting of Defence Ministers. This afforded EU Ministers of Defence and the under-secretary general, department of peacekeeping operations in the United Nations the opportunity to discuss how to foster more effective co-operation and build partnerships in order to enhance the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping operations.
European Council Meetings
Michael Moynihan
Ceist:16. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on last month's informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers; the number of such EU meetings, both informal and formal, that have occurred since he took up office; the number he has attended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13241/13]
During each European Union Presidency one formal and one informal meeting of Defence Ministers is held. There is no separate Defence Ministers Council within the EU Council of Ministers. The formal meetings are held in Brussels or Luxembourg at the invitation of the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Baroness Catherine Ashton, and the informal one in the country holding the Presidency.
Since 9 March 2011 there have been four formal meetings and five informal meetings of Defence Ministers. Unfortunately, due to other commitments, my colleague, the Minister for Defence, was only able to attend two of the formal meetings and two of the informal meetings. The Minister was represented at the other meetings by the Secretary General or the defence policy director of his Department. The Minister, Deputy Shatter, chaired the informal meeting of Defence Ministers in Dublin on 12 and 13 February 2013 on behalf of Baroness Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy-Vice-President of the European Commission. Ministers discussed a range of issues, including the upcoming European Council on Defence, Mali, the Horn of Africa and partnerships between the EU and the United Nations.
Ministers also had the benefit of the presence of the Secretary General of NATO and the under-secretary general in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Herve Ladsous, representing the UN for the first time at an EU Defence Ministers meeting. In relation to the European Council on Defence in December, Ministers agreed that this forum would provide them with the opportunity to increase the effectiveness, visibility and impact of Common Security and Defence Policy.
Additional information not given on the floor of the House
Ministers had a detailed exchange of views in relation to Mali and received a briefing from the mission commander, Brigadier General Francois Lecointre. The broad consensus arising from the meeting was that this mission will impact greatly on the prevention of terrorism in the region and safeguard Europe and its citizens in the future.
With regard to the agenda item concerning operations, Ministers received a briefing from Brigadier General Gerald Aherne of the Irish Defence Forces, who is the current mission commander for the EU training mission in Somalia. Also, Rear Admiral Robert Tarrant, the newly appointed operation commander, gave an update on EUNAVFOR Atalanta. Ministers congratulated the commanders on the progress that all are making in their respective missions.
Partnerships, in particular, between the EU and the United Nations were the final item for discussion. This is a priority in the defence area during the Irish Presidency and this discussion was a natural successor to a very successful seminar held recently in Dublin Castle on the subject of regional organisations support for the UN. This topic afforded EU Ministers of Defence, Mr. Ladsous, under-secretary general, department of peacekeeping operations in the United Nations and NATO Secretary General Rasmussen the opportunity to discuss how to foster more effective co-operation and build partnerships in order to enhance the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping operations.
The meeting of Defence Ministers was important in enabling member states shape the evolution of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, both strategically and operationally. There was great enthusiasm and commitment from all member states to work together on issues of concern at both national and international level.
Does the Minister of State have a view, or will he explore with the Minister for Defence whether he considers it appropriate that there is not in fact a formal council of European Defence Ministers, when one considers the range of security and other issues that arise for us on an ongoing basis? In addition, it is necessary to engage with Ms Ashton about her international responsibilities. Does the Minister of State have a view on that, or will he take that back to the Minister?
I would be happy to take the Deputy's view back to the Minister, but this is not a formal decision-making body. It is a useful forum at which member states can put forward ideas and discuss topical issues. The debates at the meeting were fruitful, particularly in respect of the preparations for the European Council on defence arranged for December of this year, and it also gave further impetus to the co-operation between the EU and the UN. Preparing for the European Council will be a common thread throughout the year. Some common themes were noted for the discussion: that co-operation is more likely to work at a regional level; that resources would remain in short supply, necessitating pooling and sharing; and that the experience from Mali suggests that wherever an individual member state has been capable of responding rapidly, the decision-making processes within the EU had been found wanting. Wanting to act was insufficient as, more importantly, there was a need to be able to act. There is also a need to articulate the role of common security and defence policy in the wider world and discuss its co-ordination at EU level.
Defence Forces Properties
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:17. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on the disposal or sale of Columb Barracks, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13158/13]
Brian Stanley
Ceist:22. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide details of expressions of interest made to his Department on each of the closed barracks by agencies or local authorities. [13157/13]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 22 together. I am taking this question on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence, Deputy Alan Shatter.
Since 1998 a total of 14 barracks have been closed under various barrack consolidation programmes. To date, nine of these barracks - Clancy in Dublin, Castleblayney, Ballincollig, Fermoy, Naas, Monaghan, Cavan, Castlebar and a large portion of Longford - have been sold. In respect of the remaining barracks, agreement has been reached on the sale of Lifford and Rockhill to Donegal County Council. Discussions are ongoing about the possible sale of Clonmel Barracks to South Tipperary County Council and the remaining part of Longford has been reserved by the OPW for the local Garda Síochána. Magee Barracks in Kildare and Columb Barracks in Mullingar remain the property of the Department of Defence.
As with previous rounds of consolidation under the Defence Forces modernisation programme, once vacated, barracks are being disposed of, with the proceeds being used to fund the upgrading of Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure. Following each announcement of barracks closures, the Department of Defence has written to Departments and various agencies and local authorities seeking expressions of interest in acquiring any of the properties, including Columb Barracks, Mullingar, to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures. While some discussion has taken place about Columb Barracks, no substantial progress has been made towards achieving a sale to date. My colleague, the Minister for Defence, would of course be happy to discuss with any interested group proposals it may have for the purchase and development of the former barracks in Mullingar for the benefit of the local community.
I thank the Minister of State for his response. It is encouraging that a significant number of barracks have been sold. Could we get details of the amount the Department secured for them and how that was reallocated in the Department's budget?
There has been a consultation process in Mullingar, and the Minister made a statement in January inviting proposals and submissions. The town council has been considering incorporating proposals into its town development plan. What is the security cost of maintaining the barracks in the interim?
The total realised to date from the sale of surplus property has been approximately €85 million. This, together with income of €18 million from the sale of other smaller military properties and married quarters, has been reinvested in providing equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces. The moneys thus received in respect of the sale of properties have been returned to the Defence Forces as appropriations-in-aid. The increased level of appropriations-in-aid has allowed the retention of funding levels for re-equipment. Some of the major programmes include the acquisition of light tactical armoured vehicles, MOWAG armoured personnel carriers, two EC 135 helicopters, six AW 139 helicopters and two new offshore patrol vessels. This approach is in line with the 2000 White Paper on Defence, which stated that 100% of the revenue arising from the sale of property surplus to military requirements must be invested in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces.
Written Answers follow Adjournment.