Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Question 19: To ask the Minister for Defence his views on the comments made by a leading Swedish military commander (details supplied) during a visit to Ireland that an EU battle group should be used to help deal with the effects of natural disasters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38110/10]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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EU action in response to humanitarian crises is framed in the context of an overall international approach that brings together the United Nations, the Red Cross movement, humanitarian NGOs and others in support of action by the national authorities of the country concerned. There is general agreement that humanitarian assistance should respect the principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence. Accordingly, humanitarian action should be civilian in character and in leadership. However, it is established UN and EU policy that, in certain circumstances, humanitarian aid may draw upon military assets, notably for logistical and infrastructure support. This would normally occur where the use of military assets can meet a critical humanitarian need. Operating procedures and coordination arrangements for military support to EU disaster response have been put in place, within the overall framework of humanitarian operations, retaining their civilian nature and character.

Battlegroups are an important component of the EU crisis response toolbox and the deployment of Battlegroups should be dealt with in this context. Within the Battlegroup concept one potential use is the delivery of humanitarian aid. That said, there is considerable divergence of views among partners on the use and potential effectiveness of Battlegroups in a humanitarian context. Depending on the nature of the humanitarian assistance required, a Battlegroup may not be in a position to provide the necessary capabilities and may not always be the most appropriate response.

Ireland's position on this matter is pragmatic and needs-driven. Under a civilian lead, military assets could be deployed where this is the most appropriate response. Such assets could be drawn from a stand-by EU Battlegroup or generated for that specific purpose from the Member States, whichever is the more appropriate and, more importantly, immediately available.