Minister to seek approval for maritime security strategy

The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Helen McEntee will today seek Government approval for a new national maritime security strategy.

The strategy’s aim is to strengthen protections around undersea cables and energy connections in Ireland’s waters, amid growing geopolitical tensions.

The strategy is advocating that cooperation with neighbouring states and international partners is stepped up in the area.

This includes the UK and France and there would be continued engagement too with the EU and NATO.

Meanwhile closer links with the private companies that own much of Ireland’s offshore infrastructure would also be a priority.

A new national maritime security centre is set to be established and the Government will consider participating in a regional hub to monitor North Atlantic infrastructure.

Legislation will be brought forward to provide the Defence Forces with clearer enforcement powers at sea.

Later this morning the Taoiseach will join a meeting of the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Micheál Martin is expected to reaffirm the country’s unwavering support for Ukraine and its commitment to a just and lasting peace.