Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
214. Deputy Catherine Ardagh asked the Minister for Defence for an overview of the new C2 and joint structures to be established to be delivered under the updated Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. [12375/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Defence, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges not only of today, but also the future.
The Commission on the Defence Forces recommended in its 2022 report significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
There are a number of Government approved, Commission recommendations contained in the report in relation to high level command and control (C2). This work is on-going, significant, complex and sensitive involving a fundamental review of the current regulatory framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence.
Following approval by Government work is progressing on the legislative requirements for high level C2. A Bill to include provision for new high-level Command and Control arrangements is being progressed by my Department with a General Scheme to be completed by the end of Q2 2026 allowing for enactment in 2027.
Transformation efforts of the magnitude recommended by the Commission take time, and can only be successful if they are built on solid foundations. I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place, coupled with progress to date, will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
