Seán Kyne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister to the Chamber. I was watching the debate in my office. I acknowledge his commitment to the Defence Forces, the engagement on the part of Government in appointing a commission to review the Defence Forces and their future, and the action plan agreed at Cabinet with the associated increased funding that has been announced. It will see a transformation of our defence capabilities in the coming years.

There was talk of LOA3. One would have to get to LOA2 anyway before one gets to LOA3, so it makes perfect sense to implement LOA2 as part of the view to address specific priority gaps in our ability to deal with the assault on Irish sovereignty and serve on higher intensity peace support operations.

The world has changed so much from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, when we had a greater threat of terrorism on our own shores, though there is still a threat. We saw an ending to the Cold War and the terrorist attacks that were deemed to be far away from home. It is clear that the threat is there, whether it be a cyber or physical threat. The war on European soil is a wake-up call regarding our defence capabilities.

The increases in naval personnel envisaged as part of this review is welcome. There has been much bad publicity over many years about boats being tied up and not out at sea where they should be. The impetus, as part of the commission report and action plan, is welcome to increase our naval capabilities, including in defence of our shores. The sea mass of our country is ten times larger than the land mass. Look at the marine map of Ireland and at the work the Marine Institute and Geological Survey Ireland do regarding mapping our shores. Increasing our sea capabilities for patrolling and drug protection is welcome.

I welcome the transformation envisioned for appointments of key personnel, the civilian head of strategic HR reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, the civilian head of transformation, the gender advisor reporting to the Chief of Staff and the digital transformation officer. That will improve the efficiency and accountability of the service. Also welcome is the establishment of the office of reserve affairs and a capability development branch.

The Minister is on record, concerning where ships are patrolling off the west coast and have to go back to their headquarters in Haulbowline, as stating his belief in the necessity for a base off the west coast, as well as the east coast as mentioned by Senator Ward. There are plenty of fine sites that are or will be undergoing development, including Ros an Mhíl and Galway Port. It is more important to improve the capability and ensure the ships are at sea where and when necessary.

Being parochial, I always enjoy the visits to Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa in Renmore. The barracks there has a proud record and I hope the review and its recommendations ensure the enhanced status of barracks like Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, which is so important in the heart of Galway city.I note the investment that is planned for upgrades to the accommodation in Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, with more than €8 million committed. The status quooption, which was the first option, would require investment anyway - something like €47 million. Significant funding is required and has been committed to and that has to be kept under review with regard to costs that arise. I welcome the commitment to increase the level of personnel, increase the Naval Service personnel and back up the Reserve Defence Force. That is very welcome. The improvements to primary radar capability are very important as well.