Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality, which has been pursued by successive Governments, is characterised by non-participation in military alliances. This policy has been underpinned by a set of complementary values which includes the protection of human rights, support for development and the promotion of disarmament and the elimination of weapons of mass destruction.

Ireland’s policy of military neutrality has gone hand-in-hand with our belief that international engagement is critical to enhance co-operation and to reduce conflict in the world. Ireland has consistently sought to engage directly in the promotion of international peace and security through our bilateral contacts and multilateral efforts with the United Nations and the European Union. We have a long-standing and recognised record of participation in international crisis management, which is underpinned by our commitment to fulfil our obligation as members of the UN to provide assistance in any action which the Security Council takes in accordance with the United Nations Charter. This is founded on the basis that primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security rests with the UN Security Council.

Successive Governments have made overflight and landing facilities available at Shannon Airport to the United States for well over 50 years. These arrangements do not amount to any form of military alliance with the United States and are governed by strict conditions. These include stipulations that the aircraft must be unarmed, carry no arms, ammunition or explosives and do not engage in intelligence gathering, and that the flights in question do not form any part of military exercises or operations. I therefore see no incompatibility between the use of Shannon Airport and our traditional policy of military neutrality.

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