The amendment also contains a new subsection that I regard as one of the most important steps we as a nation will ever take. It copperfastens our tradition of military neutrality. It will prevent the State from adopting a decision of the European Council to enter into a common defence without having the prior approval of the Irish people through a referendum. I regard that as a remarkable step forward. Bunreacht na hÉireann has served the people of this nation well since 1937 but it has been silent in terms of references to common defence or military neutrality or alliances. For the first time, by voting "Yes", the Irish people will be able to copperfasten what is our common belief about our neutrality. The best guarantee we can give to the Irish people is their own guarantee.