Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 306: To ask the Minister for Defence the extent to which he has had discussions with EU or UN colleagues in the context of further Irish troop deployment overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12251/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Ireland is currently contributing 129 Defence Forces personnel to 11 different missions throughout the world. The main overseas missions, in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed, are the EU-led operation ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 44 personnel and the NATO-led International Security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo with 12 personnel. Other personnel are serving as monitors and observers with the United Nations and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Staff are also deployed at the organisational headquarters of the EU, OSCE and NATO.

On foot of a request from the United Nations, the House last month approved the despatch of a Defence Forces contingent of some 440 personnel for service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. The total number of personnel deployed overseas will amount to approximately 570 when the contingent is fully deployed in late June 2011. This represents a significant contribution to international peacekeeping operations and the obligations eland has assumed through its membership of the UN.

In addition, following a request from the Operation Commander for EUFOR Libya, the Government this week approved the despatch of 2 members of the Defence Forces to serve in the Operational headquarters for the mission which is based in Rome. The staff will be engaged in the development of plans and options in relation to a possible EU mission to support the delivery of humanitarian assistance in the region. This operation will be distinct and separate from the current NATO-led operation. A further Council decision would be required to launch the operation, which will only be undertaken should the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs request assistance from the EU.

Apart from the above requests, no other deployments are planned or envisaged at this time.

Ireland's contribution to overseas operations is important, primarily in terms of Ireland's contribution to international peace and security and the protection of people caught in conflict, but also in terms of Ireland's international reputation and credibility, its commitment to the UN and the development and maintenance of Defence Forces capabilities. I am committed to ensuring that the Defence Forces continue to contribute in a meaningful way to overseas operations, at an appropriate level which is sustainable within the resources available for Defence.

In terms of discussions at EU and the UN, since I have taken up office, I have not, as yet, had an opportunity to meet with my EU colleagues to discuss issues relating to the EU's Common Security and Development Policy. However, officials in my Department and Military representatives regularly attend meetings that cover a wide range of issues in this area, including current operations, cooperation with other international organisations, including the United Nations and NATO in relation to peace support operations, and the development of EU military and civilian capabilities for crisis management operations. I am regularly updated in this regard.