Fine Gael's four MEPs have said that, given new security threats, it is time to open a debate on Irish security and defence.
Speaking this morning, Fine Gael MEP Brian Hayes said their discussion document was not a Fine Gael or government paper and that they were not advocating the creation of an EU army or the increased militarisation of Europe.
He said they were asking how collaboration can be enhanced while respecting traditions of all EU members.
The document makes ten recommendations.
They include supporting the development of a European Defence Union which would be subject to Ireland's traditional position of military non-alignment.
It proposes redefining the concept of Irish neutrality to allow active engagement in international security operations but again, to remain non-military aligned.
It also suggests amending the 'triple lock' for the deployment of Irish troops on peacekeeping missions which currently requires UN authorisation, a government decision and a Dáil vote.
Where UN approval has been blocked to allow deployment in times of crisis or natural disaster, it proposes a two thirds majority vote in the Dáil.
Another option would be to change the UN authorisation part of the triple lock with "UN authorisation or EU council decision."
Other recommendations include increasing defence spending, setting up a central intelligence unit to interact with the European unit, establishing a national cyber security strategy and also a national security council, as well as developing Ireland's defence industry.
It also suggests there should be plans put in place for a post-Brexit situation with close cooperation continuing between Ireland and UK.
.@brianhayesMEP and @DeirdreCluneMEP launching document calling for open debate on Irish security & defence in light of increased security threats. Say it is not a govt document & they are not calling for an EU army or increased EU militarisation @rtenews pic.twitter.com/YmdNmW4SNu
— Martina Fitzgerald (@MartinaFitzg) March 9, 2018
