Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has defended Ireland's neutrality after 25 of the 27 EU member states look set to agree a joint-procurement of ammunition for Ukraine.
Michael McNamara TD addressed the Taoiseach in the Dáil this Wednesday, stating that a leaked discussion paper reported in the Manchester Guardian showed that the EU was close to a "landmark agreement to procure arms."
He said: "In the first instance, this will be done through the European Peace Fund, this has been increased from €3.5 billion to €5.5 billion, with an additional €1 billion being proposed for the purchase of 155mm artillery rounds."
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Deputy McNamara added that the report stated that 25 of the 27 EU member states have indicated interest in this.
"Taoiseach are we one of the 25 who are indicating interest, or one of the two who aren't?" the Clare TD asked.
In response, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar stressed that he would have to check with Tanaiste Michael Martin to get the "exact up to date position" on the issue, which is under development and discussion.
"We are part of the European Peace Fund already. We already contribute to it and that money is used to help Ukraine in the war effort," he said.
However, he stated that the specific contribution Ireland makes to the fund is not allowed to be used for "offensive weapons."
"We are happy to contribute to the European Peace Fund when it comes to medical equipment, armour, rations, defensive equipment but we feel it would be a breach of our policy of neutrality and non-alignment if we were to use that money for offensive weapons," he added.
The leader of the Irish Government added that "perhaps it is hypocritical" or an "Irish solution to an Irish problem."
"That is the position we are maintaining and won't depart from," Taoiseach Varadkar said.
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