Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

While I accept that there is nothing in the Lisbon treaty on the creation of a European army, we have argued during the years that each single treaty that has been voted on in this country has gradually increased the militarisation of the European Union. As is usual for those in positions held by persons such as Jean-Claude Juncker, they are preparing the ground using a soft approach. It is only when a country stands up and forcefully rejects the move or push towards that position that they back off. It is very interesting that the recent statements have arrived in the context of the Brexit vote. In the past Britain would have been opposed to the centralisation or concentration of military policy in Europe, other than in NATO. This is an opportunity for those who have previously said such things to try to further the debate. It is only if countries such as Ireland reject it that they will back off. I welcome what the Minister of State has said, but it needs to be said forcefully, not just in this Chamber but also outside it, that Ireland will not countenance this approach and will oppose it in every way. We should be seeking out allies throughout Europe and beyond to ensure a new military alliance will not be founded.

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