Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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60. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the position regarding the use of drones in surveillance and in combat; the EU position on the use of drones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36582/13]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (commonly referred to as “drones”) are used for both civilian and military purposes. Most military drones do not carry weapons and are used mainly for reconnaissance purposes. Under international law, there is no prohibition on drones as such. Their use in armed conflict is subject to international humanitarian law. This sets specific requirements in relation to the use of force in armed conflict, including the principles of necessity, proportionality and distinction. I am deeply concerned about any indiscriminate use of drones which would clearly be contrary to international law, and by instances where innocent civilians have been killed by attacks using drones.

Outside of an armed conflict situation, international human rights law applies. Along with our EU partners, Ireland strongly condemns extra-judicial killings. Not only are these contrary to international human rights law, but they undermine the concept of the rule of law, which is a key element in the fight against terrorism. This applies regardless of the means used. The EU has consistently argued the case internationally that combating terrorism must be conducted in full compliance with and respect for international law, in particular the law of armed conflict and human rights law. In line with the UN Global Strategy on Counter Terrorism, the EU believes that effective counter terrorism and the protection and promotion of human rights are mutually reinforcing and not competing goals.