Uploaded September 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Minister for Defence Helen McEntee said Ireland is increasing investment in its own defence capabilities while remaining a militarily neutral country.
Speaking at the Informal Meeting of Defence Ministers in Druids Glen, County Wicklow, McEntee said Ireland has increased defence spending by 43% in recent years.
She said Ireland is investing significantly in air capabilities, radar capabilities and counter-drone technology to protect its own people and work more closely with European partners.
McEntee stressed that Ireland’s military neutrality means not joining a military alliance — but it does not prevent Ireland from supporting other countries.
She pointed to Article 42.7, the EU’s mutual assistance clause, saying it has worked well in the past and that Ireland contributes to it.
Her message was firm: Ireland will not be found wanting when EU colleagues and Member States need support and assistance.
McEntee also warned that Europe has seen an increase in hybrid activity over the summer, and said ministers will discuss how to respond collectively to these growing threats.
#eudebates #HelenMcEntee #Ireland #EUDefence
Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Minister for Defence Helen McEntee said Ireland is increasing investment in its own defence capabilities while remaining a militarily neutral country.
Speaking at the Informal Meeting of Defence Ministers in Druids Glen, County Wicklow, McEntee said Ireland has increased defence spending by 43% in recent years.
She said Ireland is investing significantly in air capabilities, radar capabilities and counter-drone technology to protect its own people and work more closely with European partners.
McEntee stressed that Ireland’s military neutrality means not joining a military alliance — but it does not prevent Ireland from supporting other countries.
She pointed to Article 42.7, the EU’s mutual assistance clause, saying it has worked well in the past and that Ireland contributes to it.
Her message was firm: Ireland will not be found wanting when EU colleagues and Member States need support and assistance.
McEntee also warned that Europe has seen an increase in hybrid activity over the summer, and said ministers will discuss how to respond collectively to these growing threats.
#eudebates #HelenMcEntee #Ireland #EUDefence
