35 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the policy in respect of the Irish Army's participation in any European defence alliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Ireland is not a participant in any European defence alliance.

The Maastricht Treaty does not contain a mutual defence commitment nor does it require Ireland to join a military alliance. Moreover, it provides that the policy of the Union shall not prejudice the specific character of Ireland's security and defence policy.