Hogan wants people to have their say on Triple Lock and Irish neutrality

Cllr Paul Hogan of Independent Ireland has reiterated the party’s opposition to the removal of Ireland’s Triple Lock mechanism, calling on the Government to retain the existing safeguards governing the overseas deployment of Irish Defence Forces personnel.

“The Triple Lock is an important safeguard for Irish neutrality and for the independent foreign policy that Ireland has maintained for generations. It should be retained, not dismantled.

“Ireland has earned international respect through its commitment to peacekeeping, humanitarian work and the peaceful resolution of international conflicts. Our Defence Forces have served with distinction in some of the most difficult and dangerous parts of the world. We should be proud of that record and protect the principles that underpin it.

“The Government argues that reform is necessary to prevent other countries from blocking Irish participation in international missions. However, removing the United Nations requirement raises fundamental questions about accountability, neutrality and the circumstances in which Irish men and women can be deployed overseas.

“Irish neutrality must mean more than a statement of policy. It must be supported by practical safeguards that protect our independence and ensure that decisions on overseas military deployments are subject to appropriate checks and balances.

“Independent Ireland believes that strengthening our Defence Forces and retaining the Triple Lock are not mutually exclusive. Our personnel deserve proper investment, adequate resources, improved capabilities and the equipment necessary to carry out their duties safely and effectively. None of that requires us to weaken the safeguards governing their deployment abroad.

“Ireland is a small country, but our tradition of neutrality gives us an important role in international diplomacy. We should continue to use that position to promote peace, encourage dialogue and support genuine peacekeeping efforts under the principles of international law.

“Any fundamental change to Ireland’s long-standing approach to neutrality should not be treated as a routine legislative adjustment. The public deserves a full and open debate about the implications of these changes and a meaningful opportunity to have its say. We have launched an online public petition campaign for a joint-petition to the President to enable her to refer this issue of national importance to the people by referendum.

“Independent Ireland’s position is clear: let the people decide on retaining the Triple Lock by referendum, protect Irish neutrality and invest in the Defence Forces. We can fulfil our international responsibilities without abandoning the safeguards that have helped define Ireland’s independent role in the world," concluded Cllr Hogan.