Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for appearing before the committee. Many of the issues have been raised already. There is an issue with the common security and defence policy. A statement by EU High Representative Ashton referred to a more comprehensive and effective defence and security sector. My question relates to how Irish neutrality sits in that particular area and I have major concerns. In a report we received there was a reference in the conclusion to the effectiveness and visibility of common security and defence policy capabilities and the defence industry. My main concern is the term "defence industry". Clearly the defence industry has a vested interest in expanding and broadening Europe's role in defence and the security sector because there are billions of dollars to be made by doing so. What is Ireland's response to that given our traditional stance of neutrality?