Catherine Callaghan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I thank the Tánaiste. That is very reassuring to hear. The logic of creating the SAFE regulation was to ensure EU money stayed in the EU to support and encourage European enterprises to be developed with the long-term goal being to strengthen Europe's industrial and technological base. At a recent defence committee meeting, the Department of Defence said that out of the €340 billion spent on defence purchases by European countries, 80% of that went outside the EU. It is to be applauded, therefore, that the EU is working in this way to ensure our industries and economies will benefit from the necessary increase in defence spending across the Union. There is no doubt that in a small nation like ours the opportunities for economies of scale in procurement are greatly increased by us joining other defence forces across the EU for procurement purposes. As the Tánaiste has said, we get better value for the State's money and equipment can be delivered more quickly too.

What measures is Ireland taking to ensure our SMEs are promoted to other member states as being open for business and part of SAFE procurement options to ensure Irish SMEs have the opportunity to join international consortiums and secure opportunities in high value sectors?

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