Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
269. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Defence if she will ensure a local procurement requirement is implemented during the Government’s negotiations on Ireland’s military radar system with the French Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14529/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnsuring that the Defence Forces have access to reliable, sustainable and strategically important capabilities remains a core priority for this Government. In an increasingly complex security environment, considerations such as security of supply, supply-chain resilience and the long-term maintainability of critical equipment are central to defence capability planning. Defence procurement is therefore not solely focused on the acquisition of platforms or systems, but equally on ensuring that those capabilities remain serviceable and mission-ready throughout their full lifecycle.
My Department continues to keep all aspects of defence procurement policy under ongoing review. This includes exploring opportunities in areas such as maintenance, training, support and specialist technical services, where domestic expertise can complement major procurement programmes. This will also apply to negotiations on delivery of the Military Radar Programme. Any future developments in this space will be guided by operational requirements, value for money considerations, and the need to ensure the continued timely provision and sustainment of Defence Forces capabilities.
All procurement undertaken by the Department of Defence is conducted in accordance with national and EU procurement rules. Competitive tendering is used in line with national guidelines, the EU Defence and Security Procurement Directive, and the Office of Government Procurement procedures where relevant. In accordance with Circular 05/2023 from the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, all contracts above €50,000 (ex VAT) are advertised on the eTenders platform. Contracts exceeding EU thresholds, currently €140,000 for goods and services, and €432,000 for defence and security, are published in the Official Journal of the European Union. These processes ensure transparency, open competition and opportunities for Irish SMEs to participate fully in the Department’s ongoing procurement activities.
