Security forum chair says neutrality ‘not necessary’ for Ireland’s reputation

Tanaiste Micheal Martin and forum chair Professor Dame Louise Richardson (Brian Lawless/PA)

The final report on the Government’s major security conference has said that Ireland’s neutrality is “neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition” for Ireland’s standing as a force for good in international affairs.

Professor Dame Louise Richardson, who was the chair of the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy, said some people have a strong and emotive attachment “to the concept of neutrality as part of our national identity”.