It is important to separate out the long-term re-equipment programmes for the DF, from the short-term security requirements for the six-month Irish EU presidency period, starting on July 1. When the last Irish presidency was conducted, in 2013, the security threats were very manageable. Asked about security for the Irish presidency, he said he had no doubt that Ireland would mount an effective security operation. Could we link up with the French navy to secure our coastline during Ireland's EU presidency? It should be possible to reassure EU member states that Ireland can not only run a good presidency, but also, a secure one.

Source: Irish Examiner April 09, 2026 00:10 UTC