Neutrality ‘not compromised’ by battle group

Defence Minister Simon Coveney has insisted Ireland’s neutrality has not been compromised by joining the Nordic Battle Group — even though one of its countries is also a member of Nato (the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation).

The group is made up of Ireland, Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. It also includes Norway, which is a Nato member.

Mr Coveney insisted that if any of these countries was attacked by an aggressor Ireland would not have to come to its aid, even though we are allies in the EU-formed 2,400-strong battle group. He said the purpose of the force was humanitarian, although he admitted the battle group title “was an unfortunate name”, considering its aims.