Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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16. To ask the Minister for Defence when the White Paper on Defence will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1214/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The preparation of a new White Paper on Defence is a key priority as it will provide the defence policy framework for the next decade and beyond. Defence policy is a critical aspect of Government policy and I am determined to ensure that the new White Paper fully addresses the Defence response to future security challenges and associated resource requirements in a comprehensive way. Working groups comprising civil and military representatives from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces are considering likely future operational demands and the defence capabilities required to meet these demands. This work will inform recommendations regarding defence provision.

I have received an initial draft outline of the White Paper and this will be further developed and refined over the coming months.

I have decided to establish an external Advisory Group to further support me in the production of the White Paper. I have recently approved the terms of reference for this group and appointed Mr. John Minihan to act as chairman. I hope to appoint the remaining members of the Group shortly.

I anticipate that the final draft of the White Paper will be submitted to Government for approval by the summer recess. Subject to Government approval, the White Paper on Defence will then be published.