When WW2 broke out, Eire had only just won independence following approx 800 years of oppression from the British. De Valera was prudent in doing what he did to protect his citizens. His neutrality was cleverly disguised so as to safeguard his people.

He did not prevent the Irish from volunteering to help the British army, and it is estimated that any number between 42000 and 250000 did volunteer.Numbers are sketchy as there are no records held to celebrate the volunteers services. Many were shunned on returning to Eire after the war and found it necessary to leave their country. More volunteered from Eire than North of the border.

The Irish army only numbered approx 13500. If they had declared war on Germany,some of the British troops would have had to withdraw from N.Africa, W.Europe and even the British Mainland , to repel attacks in Eire.

Nobody knows why De valera offered condolences on Hitler's death. Although scholars who have studied the man in depth believe it may have stemmed from his pedantry for protocol, and his need to be seen as neutral. He also offered condolences on Rossevelt's death.

When allied servicemen crash landed in Eire they were patched up and returned home. German service men were interred and interogated in the Curragh. Information gained was passed to the British Army. Does that sound neutral?