Sinn Féin - On Your Side

Breach of neutrality puts Ireland at risk

15 November, 2006

Sinn Féin International Affairs spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has reiterated his call for the Government to cease its support for America's war in Iraq and stop allowing US troops to use Shannon Airport. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said today, Ireland is a neutral country and should have no part the war in Iraq. He went on to say the war in Iraq is wrong and illegal and should be stopped.

He said, "The war in Iraq is wrong, it is illegal and it should be stopped. Ireland, as a neutral country, should have no part in this war. The use of Shannon airport and Irish airspace by US troops is in complete contravention of Ireland's neutrality and should cease immediately.

"As well as contravening Ireland's neutrality the Government has put Ireland's security at risk. When a country takes sides in a war they must accept that there will be consequences. By allowing US troops to use Shannon the Irish Government have portrayed Ireland as allies to the US in their war. Because of this, in the eyes of many people, Ireland is now seen as the enemy and as such we are now seen as targets by these people as has been reported in media reports today." ENDS

Connect with Sinn Féin