McDonnell Advocates for Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures at 2024 Cybersecurity Days Declan McDonnell

“We have to be as skilled as they are,” said Cllr Declan McDonnell, member of the EA Group, during the kickoff event of Cybersecurity Month this year, organised by the Committee of the Regions (CoR) and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). Cllr McDonnell participated in a key debate titled “Securing the Cyber Sphere: The Role of Skills and Investments,” where he stressed the urgent need for increased funding, improved skills, and more staff to effectively counter cyber threats.

While highlighting Ireland’s strong cybersecurity sector, Cllr McDonnell pointed out that its public services, such as the Health Service Executive, remain vulnerable. This was starkly demonstrated by a significant ransomware attack in 2021. He called for EU-wide collaboration to address these vulnerabilities, emphasising the importance of prevention through staff training, establishing actionable protocols, recruiting cybersecurity professionals, and integrating AI into digital transformation efforts.

Cllr McDonnell’s strategy focused on five key areas: Prevention, Action, Recruitment, Technology, and Safety. By advocating for upskilling public officials, enforcing cybersecurity protocols, hiring skilled professionals, leveraging technology, and enhancing safety measures, he believes Europe can better protect essential services and prevent future cyberattacks.

His insights underline the growing importance of strong cybersecurity measures and the necessity for continuous investment in both human and financial resources to safeguard Europe’s digital infrastructure.