Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
351. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Defence the current capability of the Defence Forces to respond to unauthorised drone activity over critical infrastructure, including ports, energy installations and airports in Cork; whether counter-drone technology has been procured; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12914/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Immigration, and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the national security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. On each occasion that the support of the Defence Forces is required, An Garda Síochána request their assistance and accordingly, any security assessments, and consequent decisions to seek support from the Defence Forces, are a matter for An Garda Síochána.
Following Dáil approval on 3 December last of a Supplementary Estimate which provided for the accelerated procurement of C-UAS capabilities for use by the Defence Forces, contractual arrangements have been put in place to enable delivery of these capabilities during the first half of this year. In line with these arrangements, training of military personnel is already underway and the further roll-out of the required capabilities will continue to be accelerated this year. The Deputy will appreciate for operational security reasons it would be inappropriate to make any further comment on this matter, at this time.
