Brian Stanley (Laois, Independent)
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I thank Professor Tonra. I am in favour of military neutrality. I do not have a big issue with the change from 12 soldiers to 50. I understand the logic of that, whether it is 12 to 30 or 40 or whatever for rescue missions and the other areas set out. It seems like a practical measure. On page four of the document Professor Tonra submitted, he states peacekeeping needs have changed further, legislation was again amended in the 2006 Act and what that provided for, such as an international force or body approved or otherwise sanctioned by a resolution of the Security Council or General Assembly. He then refers to the triple lock. That is a phrase devised during the 2001 Nice treaty referendum campaign, which I remember and was involved in. A national declaration was made. As he set out, it was appended to the Lisbon treaty. People will admit that it is what got the Lisbon and Nice treaties over the line. My problem with it as a politician is that here is a solemn commitment and national declaration appended to treaties and all of a sudden, it will be changed without a referendum. Does Professor Tonra think there should be a referendum to give people a say in this fundamental change?