Wexford TD Asks Are We Ready For A Cyber Attack

North Wexford TD Malcolm Byrne has pressed the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration on Ireland’s preparedness for major cyber attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

Deputy Byrne highlighted concerns about threats from malign state actors, referencing the costly 2021 HSE ransomware attack as a warning of potential future risks. The Minister responded by emphasizing the substantial growth and increased resources of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which now employs over 75 staff with plans to expand further in 2025. He detailed ongoing efforts to strengthen national cyber resilience through legislative measures such as the forthcoming National Cyber Security Bill, aligned with EU cyber security directives. The Minister also stressed Ireland’s active role in international cyber security cooperation, participating in United Nations and European forums aimed at promoting responsible state behavior and holding cyber attackers accountable. Both public sector agencies and private companies are expected to implement robust cyber defenses to safeguard the nation’s digital infrastructure.