Tánaiste secures government approval to reform the Triple Lock
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From: Department of Defence
- Published on: 4 March 2025
- Last updated on: 12 April 2025
The Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris has today (4 March 2025) secured the approval of Government to reform the so-called ‘Triple Lock’ mechanism.
The proposals will modify the arrangements under which members of the Defence Forces may be deployed for service outside of the State.
The amendments will reinforce Ireland’s ability to pursue an independent foreign policy by removing the power of UN Security Council permanent members to veto our national sovereign decisions, while ensuring our continued compliance with the highest standards of international law.
Under the draft proposals, the number of Defence Force personnel that can be deployed as part of an overseas peace support operation without a Dáil Resolution will increase from 12 to 50. The Bill will now be sent for pre-legislative scrutiny.
In addition to the changes to the triple lock, the Bill also includes draft proposals to amend provisions relating to the deployment of Defence Forces’ personnel in non-combatant evacuation operations.
This is particularly important in terms of supporting Irish citizens, while contributing to the protection of our Embassies and close protection duties overseas.
Speaking after today’s government meeting, the Tánaiste said:
“The Irish people are rightly proud of the role that members of the Defence Forces have played in peacekeeping missions right across the world. It’s a record that dates back to 1958 and one that has remained unbroken ever since. But under our current triple lock system, countries like Russia have the power to veto Ireland’s participation in missions via their role as permanent members of the UN Security Council. We don’t believe that Putin or other leaders should have a veto on whether our troops can be deployed. And that’s so why I’m pleased to secure government approval today to reform the Triple Lock, as we committed to under the Programme for Government.”
The Tánaiste added:
“We are living in a new era in Europe, in which Ireland also faces significant new security and defence challenges, and we must consider how best to respond. Ireland has a longstanding policy of military neutrality, meaning that we do not participate in military alliances or common or mutual defence arrangements. Let there be no doubt, the proposed amendments to this legislation in no way affects Ireland’s policy of military neutrality and it will ensure we remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.”