Does it have to be "whose" side we on?

Can't it be what side we are on?

Ireland's defence forces are something Ireland can be truly proud of. Their role in peace-keeping has saved lives around the world. And that should continue, and Ireland maintaining a strong independent voice is important to make our defence forces effective in peace-keeping...by making it clear WHAT Ireland stands for as much as WHO we stand with.

On top of that, we do live in Europe and should be more integrated into European defence discussions, from cyber security to physical defence.

At the moment, Ireland depends on the EU to patrol our waters and on the RAF to patrol our skies. It's embarrassing and shameful.

So, I believe Ireland should be more involved in EU defence matters AND should maintain a strong voice with an independent view. Ireland is not on the side of empire building or force protection. Ireland is on the side of freedom and small nations.