Paul Murphy
Ceist:201. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Defence if she will let the people decide on the question of abolishing the triple lock; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12201/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 February 2026
Ceisteanna (201)
Freagraí scríofa
There have been a number of calls for a public plebiscite in relation to the Government's proposed changes to the Triple Lock.
This mechanism is not set out in our constitution – it is set down in national legislation, the Defence (Amendment) Act 1960 as amended.
It is clear therefore that amending the legislation which governs how we deploy our Defence Forces overseas does not require a referendum or national plebiscite.
The Triple Lock is a statutory mechanism rather than a constitutional one. It is not enshrined in the Constitution. It originated as a political commitment during the Nice and Lisbon Treaty processes, not as a constitutional or legal obligation.
It is therefore the Government's view that amending the legislation which governs how we deploy our Defence Forces overseas does not require a national plebiscite.
The Government has agreed that a new process is needed to replace the current system governing the overseas deployments of our Defence Forces to take part in peace support operations, which effectively allows the five Permanent Members of the UN Security Council members to bind Ireland’s hands in its international engagement.
This creates a situation in which Ireland's sovereign decision making with regard to participation in peace operations can be impacted by the geopolitical interests of other states.
By amending the legislation, we are ensuring our continued compliance with the highest standards of international law without surrendering our own sovereignty.
I can reassure this House however that Government remains fully committed to maintaining democratically accountable arrangements that will govern the despatch of Defence Forces personnel overseas. I can also reassure this House, as have my predecessors have on this matter, that any legislative proposals will remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.
Furthermore, this Government has been clear that the proposed changes and the removal of the Triple Lock will do nothing to alter or undermine Ireland’s policy of military neutrality.
The publication of this Bill is a key priority for myself and for the Government this term. The drafting of the Bill is continuing in conjunction with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel. It is my intention to bring the Bill for approval to Government as soon as possible following the conclusion of the drafting process and subsequently begin its progress through the Oireachtas.