It is expected that more European security and defence-related initiatives will be brought to Government this year, as the EU sharpens its focus on the area.
The incoming Minister for Defence, Tánaiste Simon Harris has been given an in-depth briefing document by the Department of Defence.
The document references the Russian invasion of Ukraine, saying that this has forced a reappraisal by the EU and NATO of their focus and role, adding that this results in the need for Ireland to address these challenges "in the context of how we deal with security and defence".
It says Ireland will need to maintain early, sustained and detailed engagement with the EU to ensure our national, or neutral, position remains protected.
The briefing points to the fact that Poland, which spends the most on defence of all EU member states (4.6% of GDP), is holding the presidency of the European Council for the first half of this year.
Poland has identified an explicit focus on European security during its term, which the briefing suggests that when viewed with the upcoming EU White Paper on Defence in March, "will further move the dial on defence and security matters at EU level".
Some of the document is redacted, ostensibly for security reasons.
The briefing also references the Tribunal of Inquiry stemming from revelations revealed by the Women of Honour.
It says the main parties have been provided with legal representation and that the work is continuing.
