Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 22: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he still describes Ireland as a neutral state and if so, the way that can be compatible with allowing US troops use Shannon Airport. [13737/11]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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There has been no change in Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality, which has been pursued by successive Governments, and which is characterised by non-participation in military alliances. Ireland has made overflight and landing facilities at Shannon Airport available to the United States for well over 50 years. There is no incompatibility between these arrangements and our traditional policy of military neutrality. The current arrangements are fully consistent with Ireland's obligations under successive Resolutions of the UN Security Council.