Seanad debates

Friday, 21 March 2003

I agree that we need to have a debate on neutrality and what it means to the people. It is important to point out, because many people are moving away from neutrality, particularly those on the Government side, that neutrality is prized by the people. A key factor in the passing of the Nice referendum was the amendment securing our neutrality. I do not believe the people think neutrality is some kind of neutered, kow-towing to the US and the UK or outright support of them. Neutrality is about not being militarily aligned, about taking a positive stand and urging a peaceful and fair means of achieving stability throughout the world. That is how the majority of the people interpret neutrality. It is a positive concept; it is not about sitting on the fence or saying or doing nothing but is about taking a stand on what is right.

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