Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for the question. Ireland does not have any relationship with the FCAS programme, which I understand is a programme operating outside the EU. Ireland does have a relationship with other EU member states in regard to the development of defence capabilities within the treaties as part of the European Defence Agency, EDA, and permanent structured co-operation, PESCO, which we signed up to recently. The EDA is focused on assisting member states in improving defence capabilities through European co-operation. The EDA affords EU member states the opportunity to keep track of best practice in modern technology in the development of capabilities, and supports greater efficiency and competition in the European defence equipment market. The primary reason for Ireland's participation is to support the development of Defence Forces capabilities for peacekeeping and international crisis management operations.

Ireland is involved in a number of EDA projects, including maritime surveillance, cyber, counter-IED, satellite communications and military search. Participation in all of these projects was approved by Dáil Eireann. Ireland is also involved in the EDA Smart Blue Water Camps project. This is a water management project that aims to address environmental concerns with regard to water usage on military bases.

Ireland is participating in two PESCO projects, namely, the European Union Training Mission Competence Centre and the upgrade of maritime surveillance. These projects relate to the ongoing development of Defence Forces capabilities for peace support and crisis management operations.

The establishment of PESCO represents a further development in EU co-operation in support of international peace and security under the Common Security and Defence Policy. Under PESCO, member states come together in different groups to develop and make available additional capabilities and enablers for peacekeeping and crisis management operations. Joint projects should also drive down the costs of developing and procuring capabilities.

Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security comprise a national competence and that any decisions, including any deepening of EU co-operation, require unanimity. Through our participation in initiatives such as the EDA and PESCO, Ireland continues to have a strong and equal voice on defence issues within the EU institutions.

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