Irish News University Academics Condemn Government Move to Remove Triple Lock

Hundreds of academic staff and university workers have signed an open letter opposing the Irish government’s decision to remove the Triple Lock, a key policy that has long restricted the deployment of Irish soldiers without UN Security Council approval.

The Triple Lock currently ensures that no more than 12 Irish troops can be sent to a battle zone without the backing of:

1. The Irish Government
2. The Dáil (Parliament)
3. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

Key Changes Under the Proposed Legislation​

The new bill would:

• Remove the requirement for UNSC approval for deployments.
• Increase the number of troops that can be deployed on missions from 12 to 50.

Academics Warn of Threat to Irish Neutrality​

In a letter addressed to Taoiseach Micheál Martin, 400 signatories—primarily university academics—warned that removing the Triple Lock could mark the "death knell" of Ireland’s neutrality.

"It is easy to be neutral in times of peace. The real test, and where it matters most, is being neutral in times of war and heightened conflict."

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The letter argues that dismantling the Triple Lock would weaken Ireland’s commitment to UN peacekeeping and multilateralism, especially at a time when the UN is facing immense challenges.

The signatories cite the ongoing conflict in Gaza, referring to Israel’s war on Palestine as "genocidal," and remind the Taoiseach of his past statements in defense of the UN’s role in global peacekeeping.

Public Opinion and Government Mandate Questioned​

The academics reference a recent opinion poll showing that 75% of Irish citizens want to maintain Ireland’s neutrality, questioning whether the government has the public mandate to revoke the Triple Lock.

"At a time when the world appears to be on the brink of a global war and potential nuclear catastrophe, we urgently need global leaders to face down warmongers, commit to peace and neutrality, and uphold the rule of law."

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Growing Academic Resistance​

The letter has been signed by academics from:

• University College Dublin (UCD) – 100+ signatories
• Trinity College Dublin (TCD) – 50+ signatories
• Maynooth University – 50 signatories
• Other institutions, including UCC, Galway University, DCU, and UL

The letter calls on the government to preserve the Triple Lock as a statement of Ireland’s commitment to peace and neutrality on the global stage.