Jim O'Callaghan
Question:160. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence for an update on the process to change the triple lock mechanism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8065/24]
View answerTuesday, 20 February 2024
Questions (160)
Written answers
In my statement to the Dáil on 22 November, I asked my officials in the Department of Defence to prepare legislative proposals without delay that would govern the future overseas deployments of our Defence Forces.
Work on the preparation of those legislative proposals has commenced, with a view to proposals being brought to Government in due course.
As the Deputy will be aware, the General Scheme of any Bill will be brought for pre-legislative scrutiny consideration by the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence to determine if pre-legislative scrutiny is required.
Any proposals agreed by Government will then have to be presented to, debated and approved by the Dáil and Seanad, thus providing the Oireachtas with ample opportunity to scrutinise any such proposals.
It is important that I emphasise that any legislative proposals will remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.
Any modification to the Triple Lock will continue to require Government and Dáil approval for the dispatch of Defence Forces’ personnel to take part in peacekeeping and similar missions and will do nothing to change Ireland’s traditional position of military neutrality, which is characterised by Ireland's non-participation in any military alliance.