Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

Ireland fully supports strict controls on arms and is working within the European Union and at a number of international fora to develop such controls, including an international arms trade treaty, as referred to by the Deputy. There are too many examples of conflicts which are fuelled by the proliferation of conventional weapons. This is especially an issue of concern in Africa, where the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in particular continues to bring much suffering to societies throughout that continent.

At present, the export of arms from EU countries must conform to the EU code of conduct on arms exports. Ireland was actively involved in the establishment of this politically binding code, which lists the factors to be taken into account when deciding whether to allow an export of military goods. These include respect for human rights, the internal conditions in the country of final destination and the preservation of regional peace, security and stability. Discussions are ongoing in the EU on the possible reinforcement of the code of conduct.

At UN level, EU member states, including Ireland, actively participated in negotiations which concluded last June with agreement on an international instrument on the tracing of illicit small arms and light weapons. This instrument will help the international community to understand, track and crack down on the illegal trade of these weapons.

With regard to the proposed international arms trade treaty, the General Affairs and External Relations Council at its meeting on 3 October acknowledged the growing support throughout the world for an international treaty to establish common standards for the global trade in conventional arms. It also agreed that binding standards, consistent with the existing responsibilities of states under relevant international law, would be critical in tackling proliferation. It was further agreed that the United Nations was the only forum that could deliver a truly universal instrument and the Council called for the start of a formal process at the UN at the earliest opportunity. Given the sensitivity and complexity of the issue, however, the realisation of such an international instrument is likely to be a lengthy process. Ireland will continue to participate fully within the UN and at other international fora to promote the objective of strengthening arms controls globally.

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