Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I stress that Ireland is one of a number of states which continue to pursue a policy of neutrality or non-alignment in times of peace. It is a matter for each of these states, including Ireland, to determine the nature and characteristics of its policies. Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality, which has been pursued by successive Governments, is characterised by our non-participation. We will continue to support all efforts to bring about a political solution to the unacceptable level of violence, murder and mayhem in Libya. We will do so in our own right via humanitarian aid but also as a member of the European Union and of the United Nations.

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