The best example is in how Irish Lights works with its UK counterparts to maintain lighthouses and keep shipping lanes clear. The first would be an immediate commitment to a full-time naval base in Dún Laoghaire. That has always been a main mission for the Naval Service and it too needs to grow. The new strategy could bring a new band of “play station sailors” to join the Naval Service. It is time for Ireland to invest in maritime defence, maintaining our neutrality but enhancing our understanding, ingenuity and capability.

Source: The Irish Times February 24, 2026 09:02 UTC