Irish Government need to pay up for sea cable defence - Swann

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has raised with Ministers in Parliament the need for the Irish Government to take responsibility for the protection of key underwater sea cables which transfer essential information to other countries across the globe.

In the Commons, the Ulster Unionist MP said:

“Cybersecurity is core and central to our security at home, but a significant weakness is the security of the cabling in the North Atlantic and along the West coast of Ireland where for too long the Irish Government has freeloaded and taken for granted the United Kingdom providing defence and security.”

Mr Swann went on to ask Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden MP, about the responsibility of the Irish government:

“Can I ask the Chancellor, has the government approached the Irish government to see if they will play or pay their part?”

The Minister agreed with Mr Swann on the importance of these cables.

Following the question and answer in Parliament, Mr Swann said:

“It is now time for the Irish Government o step up and pay up for their defence and stop their reliance upon our armed forces for their protection.”