Lisbon opponents say ‘Yes’ vote will end neutrality

Opponents of the Lisbon Treaty say a 'Yes' vote in next month's referendum will all but end Ireland's military neutrality.

A number of groups opposed to the treaty say the lack of any detailed debate concerning EU armaments and military strategy is alarming.

They say Lisbon will allow bigger states to develop military hardware for sale to countries such as Saudi Arabia.

Speaking at a press conference in Dublin this morning, People Before Profit Councillor Richard Boyd-Barrett said the use of Shannon Airport by the US military shows that the Government has no interest in protecting Irish neutrality.