Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The strategic framework on the transformation of the Defence Forces, that I published in September, is the overarching document and our focus is on implementing that in accordance with the timelines that have been set within that framework. We need one clear overarching document. That covers all aspects, both of the Commission on the Defence Forces and the independent review group recommendations pertaining to culture within the Defence Forces also. That said, a White Paper programme status report is currently being finalised and it is hoped to publish shortly.

As the Deputy can see from the reply, there has been lots of paper and lots of work. I am now very focused on actions and getting things done.

In respect of the consultative forum that we had last year, we are working on some aspects of that in terms of the forthcoming legislation. I hope to bring legislation to Government, in respect of the triple lock, for example, and those issues, in terms of the insights that were gleaned and perspectives that were heard at the forum in respect of how the application of the veto at the UN Security Council now means the opportunities to participate in peacekeeping could be few and far between into the future. That is one aspect that we are looking at. There are other aspects, in terms of a maritime security strategy, etc. We will just get on and do the strategies.

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