Cabinet decision on joining EU battle groups likely within weeks

A CABINET decision on whether Ireland signs up to the controversial EU battle groups is likely to be made within weeks.

A report drawn up by officials from various departments has been completed and is being studied by the Attorney General, who is expected to deliver his legal advice next week.

This centres on whether legislation is needed before the Defence Forces can participate. Defence Minister Willie O’Dea has signalled he is in favour of the move.

Defence Forces involvement in the rapid reaction units is controversial, with some arguing it will undermine Ireland’s neutrality.

Assurances have been given the forces will only deploy under UN mandate.

At the PDFORRA annual general conference, Mr O’Dea rejected criticism the armed forces will join the groups “on the cheap.”

“Over the last 10 years spending on the Defence Forces has more than doubled in real terms. There has never been as much being spent on re-equipping the military,” said Mr O’Dea.

PDFORRA deputy general secretary Simon Devereux said spending on the armed forces has “essentially halved” in that time, from 1.3% of GNP to 0.7%.

Predicting Irish involvement in the battle groups, he said: “We would be concerned these commitments will be met on the cheap.”

Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Jim Sreenan, said he is happy with the level of funding and Irish soldiers will be ready - in training and equipment - if called upon to join a battle group.

Lt Gen Sreenan, who described overseas service as his forces’ core business, said there will be very little difference to what the Defence Forces are doing in Liberia, where a force of more than 400 acts as a heavily-armed, quick reaction force for 15,000 peacekeepers in the West African country.