Defence review shows strong public support for boosting Ireland’s maritime security

The Irish navy shadowed a Russian ‘subsea spy ship’ last November after it entered Irish-controlled waters and patrolled a section of the Irish Sea where critical energy pipelines and data cables connect Ireland with Britain.

There is “strong support” among the public for increasing cooperation with international organisations and neighbouring states in boosting Ireland’s maritime security, an initial review of almost 300 submissions for Ireland’s maritime security strategy indicates.

The Department of Defence said this early review of the submissions also highlights the importance of investing in the capabilities of the Naval Service, the sharing of information, and increasing the role of the private sector in building protection for Ireland’s critical infrastructure.