Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The commitment we are making is to increase spending. We increase our spending year on year. That is provided for.

The Deputy spoke about NATO standards. Of course, we always work to them. If we are sending troops abroad, of course, they will have to be fully trained and equipped. There have to be standards when sending troops going abroad to participate in peacekeeping missions.

There is one important point within this document above all others. I spoke about the 20 points that Deputy Boyd Barrett has raised, but he keeps leaving out the point I have highlighted to him during the past hour and a half. Participating member states will meet their binding commitments, confirming that the establishment and implementation of permanent structured co-operation will be undertaken in full compliance with the provisions of the Treaty on European Union and the protocols attached thereto and will respect the constitutional provisions of member states. Deputy Boyd Barrett can raise his hands all he likes and nod his head-----