Minister for Defence Helen McEntee at the launch of the National Maritime Security Strategy aboard the LÉ Samuel Beckett at Sir Rogerson's Quay, Dublin. Photograph: Chris MaddaloniIreland “shouldn’t be afraid” to seek military assistance from allies during its hosting of the EU presidency this year, Minister for Defence Helen McEntee has said. She was speaking on Wednesday morning at the launch of the National Maritime Security Strategy, which calls for deeper co-operation with France and the UK to secure Ireland’s marine area. The new strategy commits to establishing a national maritime security centre in Ireland and to forge stronger links to Nato and other military bodies to combat threats to undersea and offshore infrastructure. The funding was provided under the Research Ireland – Defence Innovation Challenge.

Source: The Irish Times February 25, 2026 18:36 UTC