Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The EPF is a proposal from the High Representative and Vice President of the Commission, Federica Mogherini, who has proposed that a financial mechanism be established for funding actions under the EU's Common Foreign and Security Policy, CFSP. The mechanism would, if approved, incorporate the Athena mechanism and the African Peace Facility. It would also include a mechanism for funding actions in support of capacity building for peace and security. Under the High Representative's proposals, the EPF would be used to fund infrastructure and equipment for the training and capacity building of security and military forces in fragile and conflict states so that they can better provide their own security. The most controversial aspect of the proposal is the suggestion that this could include funding for some lethal equipment, most likely small arms and weapons.

The aim of the EPF is to give the EU the capability to contribute to the financing of global military peace support operations led by international partners such as the African Union. This financing would assist in building the capacities of partner countries' armed forces to preserve peace, prevent conflict and address security challenges. By providing comprehensive support through integrated packages of training, equipment and other means of support as necessary, partners would be enabled to address their own crises and security challenges.

Since the initial circulation of the proposal last June, the topic has been discussed at a number of ministerial and working group level meetings only. At these meetings, there has been limited support for aspects of the proposal and a clear view expressed by member states that they wish to ensure continued member state control of such funding mechanisms, similar to the current existing governance arrangements.

I have stuck to the Acting Chairman's time.

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