Irish government plans to relocate Cyber Security Center to Justice Department

The Irish government has initiated discussions to transfer the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) from its current home in the Department of Communications to the Department of Justice, marking a significant shift in the nation’s security infrastructure management.

This strategic move is part of broader government commitments to strengthen national security structures in response to growing cybersecurity challenges. The NCSC, which serves as Ireland’s primary agency for cybersecurity matters, has recently seen its responsibilities expand considerably due to new EU cyber directives.

According to The Irish Examiner, the transition comes at a time when the NCSC has been experiencing substantial growth, with increased budget allocations and staff numbers. The agency is also set to receive enhanced legal powers through legislation currently under parliamentary consideration.

However, there remains uncertainty about ministerial oversight of cybersecurity matters during this transition period. The political responsibility is expected to be clarified in the coming weeks, likely falling under one of the two ministers of state in the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

The relocation plan also includes the transfer of the internet policy section from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) to the Justice Department. Despite these organizational changes, both units are expected to maintain their current physical presence at the Beggars Bush facility in Ballsbridge, Dublin, where the NCSC recently moved into a secure, state-of-the-art floor.

According to official procedures, once a statutory instrument is announced in the Dáil, the transfer must be completed within an eight-week timeframe. Both departments have confirmed they are following the process outlined in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform’s handbook on transfers of functions, with discussions currently ongoing between their respective Secretaries General.

This reorganization reflects the government’s commitment to better align national security infrastructure while maintaining operational continuity in Ireland’s cybersecurity capabilities.

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