Ireland's Neutrailty

• When World War 2 broke out in 1939, Ireland declared itself as a neutral country. This was because they wanted to show independence from Britain, they were unprepared to fight in war, the Irish economy was weak meaning that war would destroy it further and not being involved in war was a popular decision with all parties.
• While Ireland was neutral, it was clear they favoured the Allies over the Central Powers. This was proven as they allowed Allied planes to fly over Donegal, they imprisoned German airmen while allowing British and American airmen to flee and 50k Irishmen joined the British army.
• Emergency Powers Act, 1939:

  • Under this act, the government could do anything in its power to ensure Ireland stayed neutral.
  • Newspapers, poetry, plays and films were censored
  • People's mail could be searched if the government felt it was right to do so