Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 6, 27, 33 and 49 together.

The renewed programme for Government sets out the commitment for the preparation of a new White Paper on defence, for the period 2011 to 2020. I have circulated a draft memorandum to my Cabinet colleagues outlining the proposed approach to developing the new White Paper. I intend to bring a memorandum to Government in the near future seeking approval to formally launch the process. The new White Paper will build upon the first White Paper on defence, which was published in February 2000. This has provided the policy framework and a development strategy for the modernisation, reform and transformation of the defence organisation during the past decade.

The new White Paper will set out defence policy for the period to 2020 having regard to the defence and security environment and the roles assigned to the Defence Forces. It will chart a course for the continued development of the defence organisation and will facilitate planning for and delivery of the required defence outputs. The process of developing the White Paper will include a broad consultative process encompassing other Government Departments and agencies, the general public, academic experts and other stakeholders. Submissions will also be sought from the Defence Forces representative associations. I expect to have a draft White Paper prepared for submission to Government in the second half of 2011. The current White Paper on defence will continue to provide the policy framework pending the adoption of the new White Paper.

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