A new local group, the Louth Neutrality Network, is making waves in the North East with a passionate campaign to protect Ireland’s long-standing tradition of neutrality.
Launched on the powerful 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing, the group is raising the alarm about the government’s controversial plan to scrap the “Triple Lock,” a key legal safeguard for deploying Irish troops overseas.
At the heart of the issue is the so-called Triple Lock—the legal requirement that a UN mandate must be in place before Irish soldiers can be sent abroad.
The Louth Neutrality Network believes that removing this safeguard is a dangerous move that fundamentally undermines Ireland’s identity as a nation of peace and diplomacy.
The group points to a profound shift in political stance, highlighting how Fianna Fáil, a party once championed by Louth’s own Frank Aiken for its commitment to nuclear disarmament, is now leading the charge to dismantle the very principle of neutrality that former Taoiseach Micheál Martin himself once called “at the core of our neutrality.”
The group argues this push to rush legislation through the Dáil without a new referendum would be a betrayal of the Irish people.
This vital message is resonating with the Drogheda community. Last weekend, the Louth Neutrality Network held a spirited information stall on West Street, speaking to hundreds of people and gathering signatures for a petition.
A spokesperson for the group reported an “overwhelming support for retaining and strengthening Irish neutrality” from people across all political backgrounds, echoing consistent national opinion polls.
“People feel strongly that active neutrality is a core Irish value and are proud of our role in international diplomacy and UN peacekeeping missions,” the spokesperson said. “The government needs to listen to the public on this vital issue.”
The Louth Neutrality Network has already been featured on LMFM and continues its efforts to raise awareness.
For Drogheda and North East residents eager to support the cause or learn more, you can connect with the group through their social media pages to get involved.
