Simon Harris, Ireland's Defence and Foreign Affairs Minister, emphasized the need for increased defence spending during the Munich Security Conference, building on Taoiseach Micheal Martin's remarks. With the defence budget set at €1.29 billion for 2024, Harris asserted that European nations, including Ireland, must enhance their defence capabilities. He stressed the importance of investing in both infrastructure and Defence Forces personnel, advocating for a respectful dialogue around defence that aligns with Ireland’s historical military neutrality. Upcoming reviews of capital allocations and a revised National Development Plan are also planned for July.
I think there's no doubt that all European countries, including Ireland, are going to need to spend more on defence and security, and that statement doesn't in any way, shape or form, affect our long standing policy of military neutrality.
Investing in the people in terms of our Defence Forces is really important. We have a long and proud tradition as a country in terms of our UN peacekeeping mission as well.
I believe in the term of this Government, we are going to need to see a significant increase in our spending on our own security infrastructure, which includes our Defence Forces.
Ireland certainly doesn't shirk any conversation in relation to defence and security. In fact, I think we're very much obligated to engage in those conversations.
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