Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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I wish to confirm that the EU and NATO declaration confirms that future co-operation will fully respect the decision-making autonomy of both organisations.

It will not prejudice the specific character of the security and defence policy of any member state. We partake in the maritime security strategy, but we are protected by our own treaty and the triple lock arrangement. It is not often that I agree with Deputy Lisa Chambers, but I agree with her absolutely this morning. She is dead right that we must participate with like-minded countries in projects and training exercises because we have a very small defence force compared with some of the larger states. When we go abroad and see our peacekeepers with UNIFIL or UNDOF on the ground, they tell us about the importance of interoperability, working with like-minded states and the experience of co-operation. We will take command of UNIFIL from Finbatt at the end of November. If we did not have the opportunity to work alongside other member states before partaking in the joint battalion with UNIFIL, we would be in serious trouble. It is a great opportunity for members of the Defence Forces to work with others from like-minded countries and participate in training exercises and the projects we are discussing.