Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I know that I said I would revert to the Deputy on her question. The reply is on its way. I have not signed off on it yet but I know it is ready for me to sign off. That was the week before last and I was in the Dáil twice last week dealing with matters. In no way is Ireland promoting an EU army, and I have stated that on numerous occasions. The Treaty of Lisbon does not provide for the creation of a European army and the concerns of the Irish people were taken into account in that respect. The Treaty of Lisbon does not provide for the creation of a European army or conscription to any military formation. The treaty does not affect or prejudice Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality. Many people have spoken of such an army right across Europe, with some people calling for such an army, there is absolutely no provision in the treaties for the establishment of any such army. The vast majority of member states are members of NATO, and for them NATO is and will remain the foundation of their collective defence arrangements. I have never stated that we should be members of or look at being members of a European army. In no way have I ever stated that we should promote such an idea.

The Deputy referred to crisis management and many people attach different meanings to the phrase. The complexity of contemporary conflicts and crises requires a comprehensive approach addressing the multiple levels of dimensions on which they evolve. I can give an example of a crisis management situation with the Naval Service's participation in Operation Sophia in the Mediterranean. That was a crisis that required management and members of the Irish Defence Forces were able to respond.