Sinn Féin's Neutrality Bills calls for the insertion of neutrality into the Constitution.

The Bill seeks to amend the constitution to ensure that Ireland will not and could not aid foreign powers in any way in preparation for a war save with the assent of the Dáil.

The Bill also affirms that Ireland is a neutral state, and that the State would have a policy of non-membership of military alliances.

Ultimately this bill gives power to the Irish people as it would create a referendum to decide if Irish citizens want this State to be a neutral country.

Sinn Féin have sought to introduce this Bill to ensure that this Government cannot and will not continue to undermine Irish neutrality.

A referendum would bring clarity to this State’s neutrality policy which has become blurred, distorted, and riddled with double speak, as successive Governments say one thing but actually do the opposite. 

The continued use of Shannon airport by foreign militaries to facilitate their on-going wars, coupled with the increased militarisation of the EU, and this State’s deeper integration in the EU’s military system, ensures this bill is timely.

Sinn Féin believes that if Ireland followed a policy of Positive Neutrality our State could make a highly significant contribution towards the long-held global objective of international peace with justice.

 I support Sinn Féin's Neutrality Bill and call on all TDs to vote in favour of it when it comes before the Dáil.