Common Security and Defence Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 July 2018

Wednesday, 4 July 2018

Ceisteanna (162)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

162. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the details of the upcoming new joint declaration on EU-NATO co-operation in July 2018 and the obligations it will place on the EU; the involvement of Ireland in this co-operation; if it remains possible for member states to opt out of same on an individual basis; if he has expressed concerns on behalf of Ireland in the development and discussion of the joint declaration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29620/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

It is anticipated that the upcoming NATO Summit in July will include a new Joint Declaration regarding EU-NATO Cooperation. It is expected that the declaration will focus primarily on those areas of cooperation already underway under the agreed Common Set of Proposals. 

Ireland welcomes the contribution that EU-NATO co-operation makes to international peace and security through the focus on avoiding duplication of structures, systems and interoperability standards.  This ensures better coherence and effectiveness on the ground in peace support and crisis management operations. 

The 2016 Joint Declaration references respect for the decision-making autonomy and procedures of both organisations.