ROI should admit reliance on UK for defence

DUP Deputy Leader and East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson has said the Taoiseach’s announcement that the Republic of Ireland does not rely on the UK for military defence lack credibility.

By Gavin Robinson MP

Belfast East

View Profile

Mr Robinson said,

“Leo Varadkar’s approach is the equivalent of me denying that the police protect my street because I’ve never had to call them to report a burglary at my house.

Ireland’s defence spend is tiny compared to NATO member states, its aircraft are outdated and incapable of intercepting Russian fighter jets and its radar is unable to identify military jets when their transponders are switched off.

Part of being good neighbours in the British Isles should be a willingness to look out for each other. It is bizarre that the Taoiseach would live in denial over the importance of UK defence to Ireland.

Rather than tilt to left wing extreme voices who in the past have been part of the Vladimir fan club, Leo Varadkar should be working to strengthen alliances with his neighbours. It is foolish not to recognise that the defence of his own nation is under active political consideration in his country by realists who recognise the changing nature of threat and instability in the world.”

Become a Supporter

  • ${ error }
  • ${ error }
  • ${ error }

We’ll email you about campaigns, events and opportunities to get involved.
Find out more about how we use your information.