I propose to take Questions Nos. 209 and 211 together.
Ireland's policy of military neutrality as set down in the White Paper on Defence 2015 is characterised by non-membership of military alliances and non-participation in common or mutual defence arrangements. This policy has not changed nor are there any plans to change it.
Membership of PESCO and participation in the EPF have no implications for Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality. Participation in PESCO relates to the collaborative development of military capabilities in support of CSDP operations launched in support of international peace and security and in accordance with the UN Charter. The European Peace Facility incorporates the existing EU Athena Mechanism on the funding of common costs of CSDP missions and operations in which Ireland has participated for many years, and the existing African Peace Facility albeit with a broader mandate. including allowing EU financing of peace support operations outside of Africa. While the EPF may, in certain circumstances and with strong safeguards, provide funding for military equipment up to and including lethal force equipment, Ireland made clear from the start of negotiations that we would not fund assistance measures which include such weapons reflecting the Programme for Government commitment that ‘Ireland will not be part of decision making or funding for lethal force weapons for non-peacekeeping purposes’ and this is reflected in the Council Decision.
Neither PESCO nor the EPF represent new organisations but rather mechanisms within the framework of the EU treaties to support CSDP.