Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 October 2023
62. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if his Department is currently undertaking work in relation to the establishment of a national security or intelligence agency; the intended timeframe in which in which they intend to publish a heads of or draft Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44365/23]
View answerThere are no legislative proposals for a new national intelligence agency at present.
One of the early actions set out in the High Level Action Plan in response to the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces relates specifically to Military Intelligence. Preliminary work relating to a review of Military Intelligence, in line with the Commission's recommendations, has commenced involving a full review of the respective legislation/Acts pertaining to the role of Military Intelligence and work is ongoing in this regard.
The recommendation on strengthening Military Intelligence capabilities and the establishment of a Joint Military Intelligence Service in the context of a revised mandate underpinned by new legislation will be progressed in line with the timeframes set out in a detailed implementation plan for the Commission recommendations approved by Government, which is expected to be published later this month.
