Denis Landy (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Bill. I also welcome the Minister of State to the House and commend him on the work he has done on this matter. As has already been said, this is very simple legislation, but it is none the less important, as it puts in place a strategy. I also commend the Minister of State on the work he has done in bringing forward defence policy, and I understand a White Paper will be published shortly. It is very important that we assess the future security environment in the country. We have come through a number of phases with regard to security, but we are now in a peaceful situation in the main and are looking abroad. Senator Ó Clochartaigh outlined the role of the Irish Army and Naval Service in the UN, including most recently the LE Eithne. I commend all of those serving at sea and on land in the Defence Forces, including overseas, on the work they are doing now and that which they have done. I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House and I am pleased to see the Bill will be passed without opposition.