Patricia Stephenson (Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Tomorrow my party colleagues in the Lower Chamber will bring forward a Private Members' motion that calls for a people's vote on the retention of the triple lock, which we believe is fundamental to protecting Ireland's neutrality. The triple lock is a system that has long ensured any deployment of Irish Defence Forces overseas is based on multilateralism and peacekeeping.

We in the Social Democrats believe it is only right to demand a plebiscite because this decision, one which is a major shift in our foreign policy, is a decision which belongs to the people and not just the Government of the day. Our commitment to neutrality has long been a cornerstone of Irish foreign policy. It has been reinforced through our ratification of Nice and Lisbon treaties. The triple lock is very much a practical expression of this commitment, ensuring Ireland participates in missions with broad international legitimacy and that it is not simply driven by whoever holds power at any given time.

Removing the triple lock is the first step, I believe and we in the Social Democrats believe, in the erosion of our neutrality. It is a mechanism which prevents mission creep into other conflicts. I recognise there is a difference of opinion on this and we have seen that in the media and from Government statements. Given the vast difference in opinion, the most fundamental and important way to approach this is through a direct vote in the form of a plebiscite. If the Government believes this change is necessary, let it make its case to the people. A plebiscite is the only democratic path forward in keeping with our tradition of public mandates on major policy shifts, just as we saw with the Lisbon and Nice treaties.

I know the Tánaiste has committed to come to this Chamber over the next few weeks to specifically discuss the issue of Gaza. I am delighted to hear that, but I would welcome an additional debate on this matter. This is a huge change in our foreign policy agenda since the foundation of the State. It is really important, therefore, that we have a timely and substantial debate on this issue.