Minister for Defence Helen McEntee at the launch of the Maritime Defence Strategy at the Le. The Defence Forces Chief of Staff, Lieut Gen Rossa Mulcahy, has reiterated that the plan for such an eventuality is “…to be able to provide a defence to repel any initial invasion and then look for support from partners”. Recruitment into the Defence Forces is a chronic problem, leading to naval vessels and other existing equipment lying idle. The revitalisation of the Defence Forces that should follow the investment in new equipment should make a career in the military more appealing. The National Maritime Security Strategy, also announced this week.

Source: The Irish Times February 26, 2026 22:08 UTC