Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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126. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he, or any officials in his Department, have received any official reports or briefings from agencies of the State since 2015, outlining concerns about any members or former members of the Oireachtas being engaged in espionage or activities that could be deemed to compromise the security of the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1659/25]

Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)
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I can assure the Deputy that the Government affords the highest priority to the security of the State.

Ireland, like any other democratic state, is not immune from the risk posed by espionage or other activities aimed at compromising the security of the State. Our security services are very alive to that risk and keep their response under continuous review in light of ongoing developments.

The Defence Forces works closely with An Garda Síochána and other relevant bodies in the State in respect of any threats identified that may have adverse implications for the security of the State. The Defence Forces also works closely with international counterparts in identifying and managing such threats.

The Military Intelligence branch of the Defence Forces provide briefings to the Minister for Defence from time-to-time. Because of the nature of and the conditions under which such briefings are provided, the Deputy will appreciate that I am not in a position to comment on their content.

It is important, however, that all public officials, including parliamentarians, exercise due care and vigilance with regard to the possibility of others seeking to exert influence or access to information that may be sensitive.