158. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence the way in which Ireland is using the Security Action for Europe, SAFE, Regulation to enhance Ireland's defence capability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53699/26]

Since entering into force on 29 May 2025, the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument has become a significant new EU mechanism, providing Member States with access to up to €150 billion in EU-backed loans to support national defence investment. A decision was taken in August 2025, in conjunction with the Department of Finance and D/PER that Ireland would not draw down funding via the loan mechanism.

Ireland is fully committed to taking advantage of joint procurement opportunities available under SAFE, where these projects are aligned with our capability development plans. In line with this approach, Ireland has opened up the contract for the supply of Integrated Modular Body Armour Systems to other Member States through the EDA G2G platform.

Prior to the launch of SAFE, Ireland initiated several significant defence acquisitions using a government-to-government procurement strategy. These are in the areas of military radar, counter drone, armoured vehicles and subsea awareness. Ireland will continue to work with other governments (including through SAFE) and the European Defence Agency to procure future capabilities.

The window for Member States to express interest in the current SAFE instrument has now closed. However, the European Commission has indicated that there may be scope for a second round in 2026. The Commission has stressed that it cannot consider a further call until all participating Member States have finalised their loan agreements under the current scheme.

Any decision on Ireland drawing down SAFE loans would require the support of both the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation. In that context, any decision to avail of SAFE funding will be considered as part of a broader assessment of defence investment priorities, including those set out under the forthcoming Capability Development Programme (2028-2040).