The Daily Star Ireland
Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty has urged the government to hold a referendum on Ireland’s neutrality following the Cabinet’s decision to abolish the Triple Lock mechanism.
The government, led by Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris, argues that the removal of the Triple Lock is necessary to prevent countries like Russia from having veto power over Ireland’s participation in peacekeeping missions. Harris emphasized that this change does not affect Ireland’s policy of military neutrality and ensures compliance with international law.
Opponents, including Sinn Féin’s Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire, argue that removing the Triple Lock could undermine Ireland’s neutral status and lead to involvement in international conflicts. They emphasize the importance of maintaining the Triple Lock to protect Ireland’s neutrality and peacekeeping tradition.
The debate over the Triple Lock’s removal has sparked a broader discussion about Ireland’s neutrality and its role in international peacekeeping. Sinn Féin’s call for a referendum reflects concerns about potential shifts in foreign policy, while the government maintains that the changes are necessary for Ireland’s sovereignty and do not compromise its neutral stance.
