A midlands security and defence analyst says there's more to it than just focus on law enforcement.
The government is being urged to set up a dedicated new intelligence agency, separate from Gardaí and the Defence Forces.
In a submission to the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy, a group of Fine Gael MEP's says Ireland had failed to embrace the gathering and sharing of intelligence.
Security and Defence analyst, Mullingar's Declan Power says while Gardaí have the primary role, there's more to intelligence than just a focus on law enforcement.
Ireland's intelligence gathering is "insufficient" and may be exposing the country to risks.
Currently it's Gardaí who lead intelligence services here, with some co-operation from the Defence Forces.
Mr. Power says Ireland doesn't need large intelligence services like the US and the UK, but we do need change:
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