International Developments: Statements
Dail Éireann — 2026-01-21
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Cathy Bennett (SF), Cavan-Monaghan

In the face of an ever more uncertain global environment, is it right that Ireland considers both how best we can be a constructive force for good as well as what is required in terms of our own security? At a time when the multilateral system is under attack from those who seek to discredit, dismantle or even supplant it entirely, Ireland should come to its defence. It is both the right thing to do and best serves Ireland's interest. The multilateral system and international law are the best protection that small nations such as Ireland can avail of.
Our history of colonialism, our peace process, our experience and who we are are crucial to Ireland's credibility and have been central to the many positive contributions Ireland has made to global peace efforts. Our neutrality has been central to our credibility. The triple lock neutrality protection has been a cornerstone. The Minister of State does not have to take my word for it. His own Department's website states that our EU partners understand our policy of neutrality through a protocol of the Lisbon treaty. That protocol outlines the triple lock.

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/dail/2026-01-21/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-31T01:00:51+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-01-21