Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 June 2025
217. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his Department's understanding of the scope and limitations of "strengthening international security" as justification for deployment of members of the Defence Forces overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31774/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is committed to playing a positive and constructive role in the maintenance of international peace and security, as evidenced by the long standing participation of our Defence Forces in peace operations. In the context of deploying members of the Defence Forces overseas to peace operations, Ireland’s aim in “strengthening international security” intends to reflect our commitment to supporting global peace and security. However, I recognise that there must be a considered justification for the deployment of our Defence Forces overseas which should encompass the legal, political and strategic perspectives arising from participation.
In this context, the scope of ‘strengthening international security’ deliberations would include assessing the aim and objectives of the operation, the tasks of the operation, and the expected outcome of the operation in creating or restoring conditions to enable the successful transition of the country or region to a more sustainable peaceful and secure environment. The scope of the operation could extend to the prevention of instability within a state or regional instability, the protection of civilians and supporting states to build a sustainable peace. Within those deliberations reassurance would be required that the proposals are underpinned by international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
As part of an international force, whether authorised by the UN or the EU or some other International organisation this Government accepts there must be a legitimate basis for the peace operation and must be established in the interest of international peace and security. Additionally, it is the case that deployments are not just about stopping violence or stopping warring factions, they will often contribute to the protection of human rights, the facilitation of humanitarian access, and the support of post-conflict recovery efforts.
I recognise that it is important to ensure that there are principles that will apply and limitations which will include that the mission or operation will be mandated, consistent with the principles of international law and the UN Charter, consistent with the principles of state sovereignty, and subject to parliamentary oversight. Deployment must serve the national interest and be proportionate to the threat or need and that the mission be bound by rules of engagement that reflect the nature of the mission.
In bringing forward the Defence Amendment Bill, this Government remains committed to ensuring that while strengthening international security is a vital and legitimate objective that may justify overseas deployment of our defence forces, such action must always be framed by international legal mandates, clear mission objectives, operational constraints, and a commitment to accountability. Our defence forces personnel serve not only in defence of our nation, but in service to international peace since 1958. We will continue to uphold those values in every deployment undertaken.
