Irish Examiner view: Country in poor state to defend itself

Lack of investment, shattered morale, and falling recruitment having aa profound impact

Foreign Affairs Minister  Simon Coveney has admitted there are "capacity issues" in the Defence Forces which must be addressed. Picture: RollingNews.ie

It has been obvious for quite a while now that our military services – army, navy, and air corps – have been in a state of considerable decline. Lack of investment, shattered morale, and falling recruitment have contributed to a situation where our armed forces are incapable of meaningfully defending the country against attack.

A draft report into the future of the Irish military, which will be sent to Foreign Affairs and Defence Minister Simon Coveney this week, is expected to recommend the most radical reform of the armed forces in the history of the State.