Defence and security

A dedicated national security and intelligence agency is needed

Sir, – Given the ongoing concerns regarding defence and security issues across Europe, the Government needs to prioritise the establishment of a national security and intelligence agency. Currently it is the responsibility of An Garda Síochána, which has limited resources.

With Ireland now a location for a significant amount of data storage, and the location of choice for a significant number of multinational corporations, potentially the threat level that the State faces has increased.

The establishment of a civilian-led agency, staffed by members of the Defence Forces alongside members of An Garda Síochána, with civilian specialists, should be a priority for Government.

We are one of the only European countries without such an agency.

Increasing our defence and security capabilities, alongside working with our European partners, can only be a benefit for the State. – Yours, etc,

CONOR HOGARTY,

Blackrock,

Co Dublin.