Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

Interoperability between our Defence Forces and others with whom we engage in peacekeeping operations is of considerable importance in our UN operations and in the role we play in the European Union as part of a battle group and in dealing with issues relating to Partnership for Peace. That is a significant focus within the Defence Forces in the purchase of equipment and it will continue to be so. When we are engaged in peacekeeping missions with other partners there must be the fullest available co-ordination between our Defence Forces and others with whom we work, in peacekeeping and peace enforcement missions.

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