Foreign policy put to the test

I WELCOME your timely call on the Government (Irish Examiner editorial, Jan 13) to clarify whatever arrangements have been made, and if necessary to justify its policy in relation to US military landings at Shannon airport. You accurately observe that “what is disturbing about the current controversy is the manner in which the Government is refusing to clarify its policy”.

This is a democracy in which the electorate is entitled not only to be informed but, more importantly, not to be deceived by Government.

Our foreign policy must be based on clear principles, and it is ironic that just under five years ago our Government declared its “total commitment to the principles of democracy and non-violence” in a historic referendum that was endorsed by 96% of the voters in this state.

The challenge now facing the Government is to honour its commitment to these principles by applying them to the situation at Shannon. If it is totally committed to the principle of non-violence, then why is it allowing Shannon airport to be used as a facility in a preparation for war? And if it is totally committed to the principle of democracy, why is it refusing to clarify its foreign policy to its own people? The moment of truth has arrived, when agreed principles must be honoured.

Anything less is a denial of democracy and acquiescence with war.

Tomas O'Meachair,

10, Plasóg na Grainse,

Port Lairge