Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 494: To ask the Minister for Defence if, in view of the forthcoming constitutional referendum on the Lisbon reform treaty, the treaty will require that Ireland increase its military spending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13866/08]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 496: To ask the Minister for Defence the way permanent structured co-operation will function under the Lisbon reform treaty; the way its existence will affect Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13868/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 494 and 496 together.

The Lisbon Reform Treaty makes some amendments to existing provisions on European security and defence. However, it does not alter their essential features. Firstly, national security will continue to remain the sole responsibility of each member state. There is no provision in the Treaty which will commit Ireland to increase defence expenditure, acquire capabilities or participate in missions. Secondly, the Treaty will not have any impact on Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality. Any decision by Ireland to participate in EU-led military crisis management operations will be for sovereign decision on a case-by-case basis and in line with Irish constitutional and legislative arrangements. The "triple lock" provisions requiring a Government decision, Dáil approval, and UN authorisation will continue to apply in relation to service abroad by contingents of the Irish Defence Forces.

Ireland's position on the question of an EU common defence is also very clear. Under our Constitution we cannot and will not participate in a common defence without the prior consent of the people in a referendum.

There is a provision in the Lisbon Reform Treaty for permanent structured co-operation among those Member States "whose military capabilities fulfil higher criteria and which have made more binding commitments to one another in this area with a view to the most demanding missions". Structured co-operation involves a range of commitments to developing military capabilities and to more intense co-operation in such areas as training, equipment and logistics.

Participation in structured co-operation is on an opt-in basis. There is no obligation on any country to take part in permanent structured co-operation.