Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Can I counter that the triple lock is not the cornerstone of Irish foreign policy. As a member of the Fianna Fáil Party, I have knowledge of the historic role that Fianna Fáil Ministers played in establishing an independent foreign policy. In fact, Frank Aiken was the key first signatory of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty and we have a very proud record on nuclear non-proliferation. That does not depend on the triple lock at all. As there is no connection, why do people keep saying these kinds of things when there is no basis in fact for them at all? Nuclear non-proliferation will continue after any amendment to the triple lock. Our great work on human rights internationally in multilateral forums will continue after any amendment to the triple lock. Our commitment to multilateralism and the UN Charter will continue after any amendment to the triple lock. Above all, one of the most defining manifestations of Irish foreign policy, namely, peacekeeping, will continue after an amendment to the triple lock and could be enhanced by amendment to the triple lock because we will no longer have to depend on a Security Council resolution to participate in peacekeeping missions in the future. I really would prefer a more honest approach.

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