Alan Farrell
Question:40. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his views on protecting Ireland's undersea cables in conjunction with NATO; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12645/23]
View answerThursday, 23 March 2023
Questions (40)
Written answers
My officials and the Defence Forces continue to engage with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications in relation to the protection of Ireland’s offshore energy infrastructure and data cables. While the Defence Forces have limited sub-sea capabilities, enhanced maritime patrolling of the Irish Sea in the vicinity of priority offshore energy infrastructure and data cables is ongoing. The enhanced patrolling is being conducted by a mixture of air and naval platforms. However, it would not be appropriate to comment on any specific operational measures. The Naval Service has no unilateral powers of enforcement in relation to damage, criminal or otherwise, to undersea cables or other communication links in Ireland’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Ireland’s relations with NATO are set within the framework of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council (EAPC) and Partnership for Peace (PfP), including its Planning and Review Process (PARP). Ireland joined EAPC and Partnership for Peace (PfP) on 1 December 1999.
The renewed partnership programme for the 2023 - 2027 period is currently being progressed. This presents an opportunity to enhance our cooperation in relevant areas, potentially including cyber and hybrid, enhancing resilience, and improved maritime situational awareness. Discussions are at an early stage. I must be clear when I say that cooperating with NATO on areas of mutual interest does not indicate a move closer to NATO, this is about practical cooperation, which is of benefit to Ireland. As with all updated partnership frameworks, Ireland’s 2023 ITPP will be brought to Government for approval in due course.