The Government has been accused of rushing a Defence Bill though the Dáil in a "covert operation".
Members of the Peace and Neutrality Alliance (Pana) criticised the way in which the Government is passing the legislation, which is expected to pass through the Dáil tonight.
Independent TD Tony Gregory
"In military terms, the passing of this Bill could be called a covert operation. Wait until nightfall when most people are either in their beds or no longer paying attention to what is happening in the Dáil. Give it the nod through, and then make a run for the summer recess," said Green Party leader Trevor Sargent.
Pana chairman Roger Cole said that there had been "virtually no debate in the media on this issue, and now there will be virtually no debate in the Dáil".
TD Martin Ferris of Sinn Féin, a member of the Pana, criticised the Government for the "underhand manner by which the Bill is to be passed at midnight following less than two-and-a-half hours debate by the Dáil. That in itself should raise alarm bells for the public".
The Bill was passed by the Seanad last week and will be brought to the Dáil tonight. The legislation would allow Irish troops to be sent on EU battle group missions prior to getting approval from the UN and without Dáil consultation.
Pana claims the legislation undermines Irish neutrality as it will effectively bring an end to the Triple Lock legislation whereby the Government and the Dáil must be consulted along with having UN approval before Irish troops are committed to overseas missions.
Independent TD Tony Gregory said: "The amendment Bill and the integration of the Irish army into European Union battle groups is another step in the slide away from Irish neutrality and another move in the direction of Irish participation in a militarised European Union superstate".
The new legislation will also make it compulsory for Irish soldiers to take part on overseas missions, said Pana.
"The Bill introduces a form of secondary conscription. Up until now members of the defence force volunteer to undertake services overseas. The Bill would remove the voluntary nature of such service by requiring it from members under orders," added Mr Ferris.