Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

15. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Government decision to participate in an EU battlegroup erodes Irish neutrality. [13944/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Let me be clear, participation in a Battlegroup has no effect on our traditional policy of military neutrality which is characterised by non-participation in military alliances or common or mutual defence arrangements.

The decision to participate in an EU Battlegroup does not presume any further decision in relation to participation in an actual Battlegroup operation. Any such decision is subject to national decision-making procedures which, in Ireland’s case, means the “triple lock” of a UN Mandate and Dáil and Government approval.

Battlegroups are a key component of the capabilities that the EU can make available in support of UN-authorised crisis management operations. Within the EU Battlegroup concept, the purpose of the Battlegroup, as a rapid response capability, includes the role of acting as an initial entry force to stabilise a situation pending the deployment of a follow-on force, to support an established peace support operation which is running into difficulties, and to respond to humanitarian crises.

Ireland’s full engagement in EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and in Battlegroups significantly enhances our capacity to influence the development of CSDP and of the Battlegroup concept. Participation also demonstrates Ireland’s continuing commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union.

Ireland has participated in seven EU Battlegroups since 2008 and following a recent Government decision will participate in a German led Battlegroup for the period 2024-2025. Experience has shown that Ireland’s previous participation in EU Battlegroups has enhanced the Defence Forces’ ability to work with other nations in a multinational environment and has served to enhance the Defence Forces reputation as a provider of a credible military capability for CSDP peacekeeping operations under UN mandates.

The Defence Forces participation in EU Battlegroups also supports Ireland’s efforts in securing partners for UN blue hat operations due to the close civil and military relationships built through our participation.

A commitment to a Battlegroup does not involve any commitment to common or mutual defence.