The Cabinet is set to scrap a requirement for Irish companies to secure Government approval before engaging with companies involved in the defence sector. However, Government sources insisted last night that it “does not change or impact our defence policy”. Governments across Europe have committed to increasing spending on defence, and the changes will create more opportunities for Irish SMEs, it has been argued. Separately, higher education minister James Lawless will brief Cabinet on the National Student Accommodation Strategy, which will aim to deliver 42,000 student beds. Elsewhere, public expenditure minister Jack Chambers will bring two circulars to Cabinet, aiming to speed up critical infrastructure delivery.

Source: Irish Examiner March 24, 2026 19:01 UTC