Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)

It is a matter of common sense. The Minister spoke about the view of the Irish people on the matter but this has never been tested. If tested, it would be revealed that the Irish people believe that Irish foreign policy should not be dictated by countries like China, which would have the power to veto any Irish initiative. This is the net effect of the triple lock. A major contradiction and potential source of embarrassment for Ireland exist in this regard so we must think the matter through. We should not take for granted that we know the view of the people on this matter when it has never been tested. From listening to people, I believe that they do not want our foreign policy to be dictated by China and other permanent members of the UN Security Council.

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