The Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion has called on the Government to hold a referendum on changing Ireland’s policy of neutrality.

Speaking in a European Parliament debate in Strasbourg, MEP Funchion said:

“As an MEP from a country that cherishes our neutrality and recognises the benefits it has brought to the world, I want to express my opposition to any backsliding when it comes to the neutrality of Ireland. Our country has a proud history of UN Mandated peacekeeping missions.

“Our neutrality has enabled us to maintain an independent foreign policy, and this is a strength that is valued, and supported by the Irish people.

“It is therefore shameful that our Irish government would try to use this real emergency to end the triple lock policy, which is in place to protect our neutrality.

“The Triple Lock is a core component of Ireland’s independent foreign policy and is enshrined in national declarations to the Irish people by governments in advance of a previous EU referendum.

“So, if the government wants to remove this protection, it should put it to the people. Let’s have a referendum and let the people of Ireland decide.”