Unionist politicians in Westminster questioned government ministers this week on financial details of a new UK-Republic of Ireland naval cooperation agreement. The deal covers sea protection for the British Isles, including cables vital to Ireland's cyber economy.

Traditional Unionist Voice leader Jim Allister asked Ministry of Defence minister Alistair Cairns in the House of Commons if Ireland receives the naval cover free of charge. Cairns responded that Northern Ireland holds an essential role in UK security and transatlantic ties. He promised to provide Allister with details on Royal Navy personnel numbers in Northern Ireland, currently at five.

In the House of Lords, Baroness Arlene Foster inquired if the Irish government contributes costs to Royal Navy operations. Labour minister Lord Coaker confirmed the agreement enhances maritime cooperation, cyber defence, air information sharing, and joint procurement. He stated it addresses threats in the Atlantic for both nations.

The Ministry of Defence described the pact as boosting cooperation on security matters critical to both countries. No money has changed hands under the deal. Government ministers in both parliamentary houses declined direct comment on payments from Ireland.

Concerns about Russian submarines targeting cables and pipelines north of the UK influenced the agreement. Ireland maintains eight naval vessels, while the Royal Navy operates over 60 surface ships and nine submarines.

Ulster Unionist Party MLA Steve Aiken, a former Royal Navy nuclear submarine commander, raised doubts about the arrangement.