Getting rid of the triple lock

Sir, – According to Minister for Defence Helen McEntee, getting rid of the triple lock won’t impact Ireland’s priority “as a neutral country”, which, she says, “is peace, it’s stability, it’s imposing our values ... ” (“Southern Lebanon devastation shows why peacekeepers must remain, Helen McEntee says”, Politics, October 26th).

Since when does a supposedly neutral country attempt to “impose” its values on others? And how exactly does McEntee suggest we impose our values in war-torn regions of the Middle East or Africa?

Is this the reason the Defence Forces are looking to purchase over 500 advanced armoured vehicles and artillery from France? (“Ireland’s military is moving into the 21st century – some fear it is not ready”, Ireland, October 24th). Meanwhile our Naval Service can hardly monitor, never mind protect, our coasts and offshore resources.

Will we ever cop on?

Yours, etc,

KARL MARTIN,

Bayside.

Sir, – The recent commentary by former president Michael D Higgins regarding the so-called “triple lock” is, in my view, wholly inappropriate.

The office of President carries a unique responsibility and dignity. Upon leaving office, former presidents should respect the conventions traditionally associated with the role and exercise restraint when commenting on matters of current political debate.

I believe the former president would be well advised to follow the example of his predecessors and allow the Government of the day to conduct its business without public intervention from Áras an Uachtaráin’s former occupant. – Yours, etc,

THOMAS MORRIS GORMALLY,

Rathangan,

Co Kildare.