Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 170: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to reports that dual use components manufactured here and used in hellfire missiles, may have been used in an attempt to assassinate a prominent member of Al-Qaeda in northern Pakistan in January 2006 which resulted in the deaths of at least 13 civilians; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11169/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The export of dual use goods, or goods which have potential civil and military applications, from the European Union is controlled by a European Council regulation that is updated on a regular basis to take account of changes agreed in the international export control regimes in which the member states participate. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, as the national licensing authority for Ireland, authorises the export of controlled dual use goods when it is satisfied that the transaction complies fully with EU regulations and with Ireland's commitments as a member of the export control arrangements and non-proliferation regimes.

When deciding whether to grant licence applications, a key consideration is the intended end-use of the goods and the risk of the diversion of the goods to a third country. Account is taken of the criteria contained in the EU code of conduct, including respect for human rights and the rule of law in the country of final destination and the possible impact on regional peace and security. Ireland abides by the obligations imposed by trade sanctions and arms embargoes which have been adopted by the EU, the OSCE or the UN Security Council. I am satisfied that the Department has not issued any licences for the purposes referred to in the Deputy's question.