EU chief plays down block on Irish forces

IRELAND’s failure to participate in EU-led military operations without a UN mandate is not a big deal, the EU’s foreign policy chief said yesterday.

Ireland’s track record in peacekeeping is one of the best in the business, according to EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana.

Minister for Defence Michael Smith called earlier this week for the lifting of the restriction on Irish forces serving abroad without a UN mandate.

He said the Government should consider amending the Defence Act to allow the Defence Forces to participate in EU-led operations not specifically authorised by the UN Security Council.

Due to the restrictions, Irish forces have not been able to take part in the EU-led peacekeeping operation in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia which began last month, even though the UN is eager for regional organisations such as the EU to take over peacekeeping operations.

But Mr Solana said he understands the limitations on the Government and it is not a problem.

“It is not for me to say what should be done with the laws of your country. The contribution of your country to the peacekeeping missions is not a new thing. You have a very long tradition of co-operating with the United Nations.

“It is very difficult to find a country with more commitment that your country so let’s not make a fuss of something which isn’t arising,” he said.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Brian Cowen said at present a UN mandate is required and Ireland should not have any problems with its stance.

“There have been discussions taking place at EU level. Our Defence Minister will in due course come to Government with any further matters he wants to bring and obviously it will be considered there.

“But as the secretary general says, we shouldn’t have any problems about the role that Ireland has played in peacekeeping under the UN mandate,” he said.

Mr Solana’s meeting with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Mr Cowen and Mr Smith yesterday was intended to discuss Ireland’s EU Presidency next year and the development of the EU’s common foreign and security policy.

The EU foreign policy chief said the latest spate of suicide bombs was a setback for the Middle East peace process but the US and EU-sponsored roadmap would prove successful.

“It doesn’t contribute to creating a climate of dialogue. We have to condemn in the strongest manner this act. But my impression is still that the road map will be applied. The road will be bumpy. It will not be easy but we are going to continue,” he said.