Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Irish Government has never interpreted neutrality as meaning Ireland stands aside from international engagement. Rather, it is based on participation and strengthening our ability to make an effective contribution to the promotion of global peace, security and development. Whether through the United Nations, EU or its own bilateral actions, Ireland acts in an objective, even-handed way in accordance with international norms and the rule of law in international relations and is seen as both an impartial and effective actor in its international relations and in its support of international peace and security.

At every given opportunity, including at European Council meetings, I have continually highlighted Ireland's policy on neutrality. I have spoken to the Deputy about this at committee level. It is important that we highlight Ireland's policy on neutrality. Every country is different. Ireland changed the PESCO criteria to suit its traditional neutrality policy.

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