Minister McEntee Rejects 'Triple Lock' Criticism from Former President Higgins
Published
Defence Minister Helen McEntee has rejected comments made by former president Michael D Higgins about Ireland's military neutrality. Mr Higgins said that Ireland was 'sliding' towards military alliances, and he criticised the Government's plan to remove the requirement for United Nations authorisation before Irish troops are sent abroad.
The requirement is known as the 'triple lock'. Under this rule, Ireland can send troops overseas only if the UN approves the mission, the Government agrees to it, and the Dáil (the lower house of the Oireachtas) votes in favour. For many years, it has been seen as an important part of Ireland's policy of military neutrality, which means Ireland does not join military alliances such as NATO.
Ms McEntee said that the term 'triple lock' is being used in a misleading way and that the Government's position has been misunderstood. She argued that the proposed changes would not affect Ireland's neutrality. She also said that Ireland would continue to take part in peacekeeping missions and to support international security.
The debate is likely to continue in the Dáil and in public discussions in the coming weeks. Supporters of the changes say they will allow Ireland to respond more quickly to international crises, while critics worry that they could weaken the country's independent foreign policy. The Government has not yet announced a final timetable for the legislation.
Sources: Irish Examiner
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