Defence Forces appear before the Oireachtas
Summary
Rose Conway-Walsh, chair of the Joint Committee on Defence and National Security, discusses recent hearings on national security risks, identifying flooding and cyber attacks as primary threats. The conversation highlights the lack of clarity regarding the criteria for deploying the Defence Forces during emergencies and the need for better interoperability between local authorities and state agencies. Conway-Walsh also addresses the ongoing investigation into a drone incident, noting the committee’s limited remit to oversee An Garda Síochána. Finally, the episode touches on pandemic prepare…
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest Rose Conway-Walsh
Committee sessions and agency responsibilities
Key risks: flooding, fires, and coastal erosion
Rural isolation and demand for Defence Forces
Criteria for deploying Defence Forces in emergencies
Critique of chain of command and preparedness
EU resilience framework and national coordination tests
Learning from past emergencies and inter-departmental work
Drone threats and the EU summit security incident
Investigation delays and committee remit constraints
Gardaí Ciona role and need for extended powers
Pandemic preparedness and past mistakes
Local authority staffing shortages and maintenance issues
Closing remarks and sign-off
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