Dear Editor,
The recent developments, highlighting the attempt by Russian agents to recruit members of the Irish Parliament, underscore the imperative need for Ireland to establish a national security and intelligence agency. It is worth noting that Ireland remains the only country within the European Union that lacks such an operative agency. An efficient national security and intelligence agency, comprising members from both An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, along with civilian specialists, should be high on the agenda for the upcoming government. To ensure ongoing economic prosperity, effective defence and security measures are non-negotiable. The Government should prioritize the state’s security and defence instead of treating them superficially.
Moreover, in the wake of recent claims about an intermediary proposing an Irish Parliament member on Russia’s behalf, there have been calls from a prominent politician for colleagues to undergo “training” to foresee these approaches. It is debatable whether this training might be too late given previous incidents. However, it raises an important point – can our politicians competently oversee a multibillion budget economy without any formal training?
Yours faithfully,
Conor Hogarty,
Blackrock,
County Dublin.
Dear Editor,
I find it intriguing that despite the recent allegation about a member of the Irish Parliament being approached by an intermediary representing Russia, our politicians believe they’re capable of running an economy without any necessary training. Understandably, it seems like they’re shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.
Yours faithfully,
Pat Smyth,
Dublin 13.