Cabinet set to approve plan to scrap triple lock

James Cox

The Cabinet is expected to approve moves to dismantle the triple lock on the deployment of Irish troops abroad.

It currently requires the approval of the Government, the Dáil and the UN Security Council.

It is being proposed at Cabinet this morning that the security council element be removed, given concerns about the use of the veto by both Russia and the US.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee said the plans do not impact Ireland's neutrality, despite claims to the contrary from the opposition.

Speaking in the Dáil, she said: "This reinforces the proud tradition that we have as a peacekeeping country.

"This reinforces the ability of our troops, our Defence Forces members, to continue to engage in peacekeeping missions on the ground... which they have done for many many decades. Something we are extremely proud of as a country."

The security council hasn't approved a new peacekeeping mission since 2014 and there is frustration and concern about the use of vetoes by Russia and more recently the United States.

The Government argues it shouldn't need permission from Donald Trump or Vladimir Putin to decide where to place troops, wile opponents to the move argue it could undermine our neutrality.

Ministers will also be told this morning where they will be sent for the St Patrick's Day diplomatic offensive - with the US likely to be to the forefront again despite calls for Micheál Martin not to travel to the White House.