Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

Before we hastily dismantle the triple lock, let us consider that we might have a different Minister in charge at some point.

I agree that the triple lock is good in the sense that we have a United Nations mandate and that it is referred to the Government and the Oireachtas. From that perspective, we can move forward positively in any decision of that nature. Regarding the origins of the battle group proposals, the Minister has said that he will introduce legislation before the end of this session. Where did the idea come from and who raised the issue with us? I presume it is a matter of tradition regarding the Nordic countries that we are in discussions with Sweden on implementing the battle group concept.

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