Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

PESCO does not compromise our neutral stance and our policies in this regard. I outlined Ireland's position on neutrality every step of the way in our decision to participate in the PESCO. Other member states such as Finland, Sweden and Austria have joined PESCO as well and they have a similar policy on neutrality to ourselves. This was clearly indicated in the Lisbon treaty that the people voted on. PESCO was very much debated at the time of the referendum campaign. I acknowledge that the people cherish the policy of neutrality and I very much respect the policy. I also accept and respect everybody's views on the reasons we joined PESCO and I ask Members to respect my views as well. We will always have different views.

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