We are non-aligned, but we are not neutral

JA BARNWELL (Irish Examiner letters, February 15) claims non-participation in an alliance proves Ireland is a neutral country.

Let me reiterate — the internationally legally accepted definition of neutrality means non-participation in a war between other countries. In no government publication, press release or Dáil answer on Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality have I ever seen a commitment to non-participation in a war, only non-participation in an alliance.

Non-participation in a military alliance does not guarantee non-participation in a war because you can still take part in a war even though you are not allied to anyone.