John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)

The Minister must recognise that Ireland will have to make a contribution. Even if we do not participate, Article 28 of the Treaty of the European Union refers to what are known as "common costs". What does the Minister anticipate those common costs will be for Ireland?

Does the Minister agree that the battle groups as they are now constituted are the embryonic form of a European army? Will he comment on the matter? Is he concerned about the way in which battle groups will be used? He mentioned the Petersberg Tasks which include pre-emptive action, joint disarmament operations and, I quote, speak of support for third countries in combating terrorism. I would like the Minister to comment on the analysis of the International Security Information Service in Brussels that has said——

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