Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

People could be forgiven for thinking that this is part of the increasing militarisation agenda in Europe and the growing pressure to have a European army, but there is no doubt that there has been a great deal of mystery surrounding this facility. Its remit is "to broaden actions with a military or defence nature, such as capacity building activities for military actors, that can be undertaken under the CFSP". In particular, this would cover a new range of military related training, equipment and support to the armed forces of third countries, inter alia, the provision of infrastructure, military equipment and supplies, or military technical assistance. This is going under the name of "peace facility", but there are many questions to be asked about how funding weapons, ammunition and salaries for soldiers will contribute to peace. Questions arise regarding accountability, how to ensure that this mechanism will not be used in the mistreatment of people, including prisoners and human rights activists, and guarantees on the funding's use. The facility raises more questions than answers. It is good to hear that some member states are against or not in favour of it. Where does Ireland stand on the fund and its accountability mechanisms?

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