Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The White Paper on Defence includes a commitment to evaluate the potential development of a new institute for peace support and leadership training in the Defence Forces Training Centre in the Curragh. A Programme for a Partnership Government also includes a commitment to develop this institute. It is foreseen that the new institute would have international standing and contribute to the overall development of knowledge and experience in the areas of peace support, leadership and conflict resolution.

Scoping work was carried out on the proposal throughout 2016. A concept paper was developed and some initial consultations took place with national and international third level and research institutes, as well as potential philanthropic contributors. Arising from this, it was decided to conduct a formal feasibility study. Following a tender process in 2017, a contract was awarded to a consultancy body to complete this study. Work on the study commenced in January 2018 and an interim report is expected in July. This interim report will inform the next steps to be taken.

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