Written question asked by Lord Empey (Ulster Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 3 March 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. It was answered by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Wednesday, 18 March 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Republic of Ireland: Navy

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have entered into any arrangement with the government of the Republic of Ireland with regard to providing naval protection to the seas off Ireland.

Answer: On 13 March 2026 the Secretary of State for Defence, and the Irish Minister for Defence announced the signing of the refreshed UK-Ireland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The refreshed MoU will see the UK Armed Forces and the Irish Defence Forces strengthen their maritime security cooperation to better protect critical undersea infrastructure and develop improved response mechanisms to maritime security incidents. This will strengthen UK-Ireland naval cooperation however UK does not provide defence cover for Ireland. Matters relating to Ireland’s defence remain for the Irish Government.

Secondary information