Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Surely we accept members of the Defence Forces in uniform should not be turning up at protest marches. That could lead in any direction and compromise the work of the Defence Forces in terms of impartiality and objectivity. While out of uniform and as civilians, members have rights as civilians. If not identifying themselves as members of the Defence Forces, they are in a position to air views and so on. The provision is specifically about activity while in uniform. I find it difficult to understand why we would object to that.

What I am prepared to consider for Report Stage is the phrase "Government policy". I reflected on this and asked the Attorney General for further advice on it. I have a general view that our Defence Forces, as a defence force in uniform, should not be engaging in or getting involved in-----