Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)

I thank the Senator once again for his contribution. As the Minister for Defence, the Tánaiste’s priority is to ensure the operational capabilities of the Defence Forces are maintained and developed. This will enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government. Capital investment for the Defence Forces has increased as a result of the commitment by the Government to move to the LOA 2 by 2028 and LOA 3 as quickly thereafter as underpinned by the commitment to €1.5 billion in defence funding in 2028, in 2022 terms. The benefit of participating in SAFE may support Ireland achieving LOA 2 across the defence spectrum and within the anticipated timeframe in many areas, including critical infrastructure, protection and in addressing cyber and hybrid threats. The Government is determined to provide for the development of a full spectrum of Defence Force capabilities that will bring Ireland in line with similar-sized European countries. It is also important to note that Ireland has a vibrant and innovative SME sector. The SAFE regulation has the potential to deliver opportunities for the wider industry, collaboration in defence applications for SMEs in Ireland, and provide an additional route to achieving our enhanced level of ambition and capabilities in concert with our partners in the EU and beyond.