An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir January / February 2024 www.military.ie/magazine 22 | I n the vast expanse of the maritime world, the Irish Naval Service stands as a force, safeguarding the nation's interests and ensuring maritime security. At the heart of this prowess lies a cadre of exceptional leaders who steer the course through challenges and achievements alike. Military leadership in the Irish Naval Service is not merely a position; it is a commitment to service, an embodiment of values, and a dedication to excellence. Leadership isn't just about telling individuals what they are to do but is about leading by example and motiving those around you. The Defence Forces Leadership Doctrine has a quote which defines what they want from leadership. Leaders must be nimble and adaptive since the sea is a dynamic and unpredictably changing environment. Effective leaders in the Irish Naval Service accept change, pursue lifelong learning, and promote an innovative culture. They are aware of how crucial it is to stay ahead of developments, giving their crew the tools and information they need to take on new challenges. The Defence Forces Leadership Doctrine discusses how Ireland and its EU partner states face threats that are more diverse, less visible, and less predictable. Ireland has always engaged actively with the EU, UN and UN mandated missions along with the international community to aid in a collective security response. With this, Defence Forces leaders must be capable of operating in an environment which is complex, congested, cluttered, contested and connected and one which will continuously challenge leaders. The Defence Forces values play a large role for leaders within the Defence Forces. From when the Defence Forces values were first introduced, they have set an ethos that has led to a continuous and exemplary level of professionalism at home and abroad. The six values of respect, loyalty, selflessness, physical courage, moral courage, and integrity form the bedrock of the organisation and are central to our effectiveness. They are fundamental to sustaining Óglaigh na hÉireann as a steadfast pillar of the Irish State. These values are what leaders shall use to ensure that they have a professional and exemplary crew. Within the Defence Forces leadership doctrine, it states how the leadership doctrine is values based and has an inherent developmental focus. Our values must be fostered and enhanced by leadership at all levels and in all contexts. These values are instilled within the leaders of the Defence Forces through the Code of Conduct and Standards of Behaviour for Cadets and the New Entrants Handbook for other ranks. This is what lets the leaders of Óglaigh na hÉireann meet the expectations of the organisation and the Irish state. Clear and effective communication is the linchpin of success for naval operations. Leaders in the Irish Naval Service excel in articulating their vision, issuing precise orders, and 22 | LEADERSHIP BY THE DF LEADERSHIP DOCTRINE WORKING GROUP, WITH CONTRIBUTIONS FROM S/LT (NS) STEPHEN SMYTH HISTORICAL VIGNETTE 6 "OPERATION SEABIGHT" Commander Eugene P. Ryan MNI (NS) Commander Fleet Ops 'Operation Seabight' On the evening of 05 Nov 2008, I was tasked with planning directing what remains to date the largest interdiction of cocaine at sea in Europe. As the vessel of interest approached Irish waters the key JTF members were present in the Ops Room in the Naval Base. 130 nautical miles off the South-West coast of Ireland L.É. Niamh and L.É. Róisín were covertly monitoring and closing in on the unsuspecting yacht. Darkness had fallen and the weather was deteriorating rapidly. We would soon be at the outer limit of acceptance for safe boarding operations. The intelligence picture was updated with the unexpected news that the yacht was not in fact UK registered. This fundamentally changed the legal aspect of the operation. I was left with the option of boarding a stateless vessel on the High Seas. The L.É. Niamh and L.É. Róisín reported that they were in position. I remained fully aware that the responsibility to conduct interdiction operations rested with me and conscious of placing boarding teams in harm's way. My commitment to protecting Ireland in the war on narcotic smuggling was forefront in my mind. Relying on my professional experience, my reading of the evolving situation, my faith in the training and commitment of the personnel at sea and completely accepting that the responsibility was mine; I ordered OC L.É. Niamh to board the yacht 'Dances with Waves'. Leadership is influencing people by providing purpose, direction, and motivation. Developing and evaluating the individual, unit, and organisation, while achieving the mission. " " WBY Malta: COS Meets crew of LÉ William Butler Yeats on OP Irini

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