265. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Defence for an update in relation to the development of an east coast naval base; if her Department has undertaken any further examination of establishing a similar naval base on the west coast; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [62555/26]

In February 2026, I published Ireland’s first National Maritime Security Strategy, which focuses on risks and threats to Ireland’s national security and defence through a new whole-of-government approach.

The strategy has an accompanying action plan to ensure delivery of this new whole-of-government approach to protecting the security of our maritime domain. As part of this action plan, options will be explored to expand the State’s existing naval infrastructure, including exploring the potential for a forward operating base on the east and west coasts.

While the action plan sets out a timeline of 2030 for a decision regarding the establishment of the forward operating base concept, work will commence on developing options in the near future. Any decision will be dependent on the recommendations falling from the Naval Service Regeneration Report.

The Deputy may wish to note that the Department has signed a licensing arrangement with Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council in relation to the use of Carlisle Pier by the Naval Service. The Naval authorities remain satisfied that the berth at Carlisle Pier is suitable for the purposes of berthing the two Inshore Patrol Vessels, as their primary function will be to patrol the East Coast.