The Government must listen to experts and the will of the Irish people when it comes to Irish neutrality, instead of pressing on with legislation which erodes our commitment to peace, according to Social Democrats defence spokesperson Sinéad Gibney TD.
Deputy Gibney said:
“A letter signed by over 400 academics and university workers has made it clear that the wider academic community in Ireland believes that the Triple Lock and our neutrality must be preserved, despite the media attention given to a handful of outliers who believe they should be eroded.
“Our neutrality boosts our diplomatic standing, protects our citizens, and is a vital defence of international order and peace – Ireland’s voice is cherished on the global stage because of our commitment to remaining neutral.
“It is heartening to see so many sign this letter in support of the Triple Lock, and it shows that if the Government wants to abolish this key neutrality protection, they will have a real fight on their hands.
“We hear from those who oppose neutrality that we need a ‘grown-up’ debate on the Triple Lock, yet it is clear that this loud minority are not seeking a real debate as they have rejected the idea of putting this question to the people of Ireland via referendum.
“Back in 2013, Micheál Martin described the Triple Lock as a core part of Irish neutrality. Now, his Government is saying the opposite, claiming its removal will have no impact on our neutrality – this is a lie.
“Removing the Triple Lock would be the final nail in the coffin of Irish neutrality. The Government must abandon the Defence Amendment Bill, which would abolish the Triple Lock, and reassert its commitment to Irish neutrality.”
April 1st, 2026