Sinn Féin spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Matt Carthy TD, has today marked the United Nations International Day of Neutrality by saying it is an opportunity to reassert Ireland’s positive role in the world.

Against a backdrop of increasing conflict across the world, Deputy Carthy said that the necessity of neutral states playing a constructive role in conflict resolution and peace building is more important than ever.

He said that any programme for government discussions must prioritise the protection and enhancement of Ireland’s Defence Forces and our Independent Foreign Policy.

Teachta Carthy said:

“Any programme for government discussions must prioritise the protection and enhancement of Ireland’s Defence Forces and our Independent Foreign Policy. The starting point on any such discussion must be an acknowledgment that Irish neutrality has served us well.

“Irish neutrality, and having an independent foreign policy, is a strength. It is valued and supported by the Irish people. On the international stage, neutrality has underpinned our contribution to peacekeeping and diplomacy. It has never been a weakness.

“It is what has given Ireland the moral credibility to contribute to the great strides that were made in the last century regarding disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation and so many other areas.

“The next government will come to power at a crucial moment that could well define Irish neutrality for the next generation. Ireland can either be either a champion of conflict resolution and peace, or, as it appears Fianna Fáil are intent on, simply another state deprioritising the multilateral system.

“The Triple Lock neutrality protection 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 multiple European referendums.

“Sinn Féin are proud of the role Irish peacekeepers have played in conflict resolution across the world over many decades and believe that the triple lock enhances the reputation of Ireland and our peacekeepers.

“The priority of any incoming government must be to rebuild our Defence Forces and ensure that they can participate in UN Peace Keeping missions rather than undermine their role, and Irish neutrality, by abolishing the triple-lock protection.

“This United Nations International Day of Neutrality is an opportunity to re-assert Ireland’s willingness and ability to play a positive role in the world.”