Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 99: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the basis for a decision of Ireland on the participation of Irish troops in humanitarian or crisis management tasks mounted by the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34298/06]

Ivor Callely (Dublin North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 102: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the EU policy on security and defence issues; the EU foreign policy activities and programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34299/06]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 143: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest discussions he has held with his European counterparts with regard to cooperation in the matter of security and defence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34439/06]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 99, 102 and 143 together.

The European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) is an integral part of the European Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), the principles and objectives of which are set out in the Maastricht, Amsterdam and Nice Treaties, which were approved by the Irish people at successive referenda.

The Treaties specify that the objectives of the CFSP include safeguarding the common values, fundamental interests, independence and integrity of the Union in conformity with the principles of the United Nations Charter, strengthening the security of the Union in all ways, developing and consolidating democracy and the rule of law, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. In addition to a wide range of diplomatic activities, the actions of the Union in support of these objectives can include humanitarian and rescue tasks, peacekeeping tasks and tasks of combat forces in crisis management, including peacemaking.

All decisions on the establishment of specific ESDP missions are subject to unanimity in the Council. In deciding on possible Irish contributions to ESDP missions, the Government are guided by our assessment of the context and purpose of the mission, and of the potential role we might play. Under the Defence Acts, as recently amended, any deployment of Irish troops remains subject to the 'triple-lock' of Government decision, Dáil approval and UN authorisation.

As I have previously reported to the House, I met the Foreign Ministers of Sweden and Finland in January 2005 and the Foreign Minister of Austria in April 2005 to discuss a range of issues, including possible Irish participation in Battlegroups. I also had the opportunity to discuss Ireland's anticipated participation in the Nordic Battlegroup with the Norwegian Foreign Minister, Jonas Gahr Store, during the visit of the Norwegian Royal couple in September. Discussion of current CFSP and ESDP issues also takes place at the monthly meetings of EU Foreign Ministers at the General Affairs and External Relations Council.

My reply today to another question provides detailed information on recent developments with regard to Ireland's participation in EU Battlegroups. Finally, further information on current ESDP activities can be found in the Presidency report to the June European Council, available on the European Union's Europa website.