Ivana Bacik: Why we need to keep the triple lock

There is no clear rationale for the sudden suggestion that we should now remove the statutory requirement for UN approval for Irish participation in peacekeeping missions, writes Ivana Bacik

We have always recognised that military neutrality does not mean political neutrality; we have stood firm as a nation with the people of Ukraine since the brutal Russian invasion of their country, and we stand solidly with the people of Gaza now, while condemning the grotesque massacre of civilians in Israel by Hamas on  October 7. File photo: Gareth Chaney/Collins

The Tánaiste had no mandate for this week’s surprise announcement that the Government is apparently planning to do away with the triple lock. All of us who support Ireland’s proud tradition of military neutrality should be deeply concerned at any proposal to undermine this core protection.

Put simply, the triple lock ensures that members of our Defence Forces cannot serve outside the State without the approval or authorisation of the government, of Dáil Éireann, and of the United Nations. This three-fold requirement has served Ireland well over the years, and our country has a highly respected reputation on international peacekeeping missions as a result.