Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

I understand the advertisements pertain to members of the Reserve Defence Force, or what used to be called the FCA. These are not full-time military personnel and as they train once or twice per week on average they do not have the same requirements for permanent accommodation. Where Reserve units are based in these towns they will be provided with space for training and other necessary activities. The advertisements placed in newspapers pertain to that issue.

The current strength of the Army is at the same level as in 1970. In the context of the requirements of a modern Army, this reallocation process makes best use of resources, notwithstanding the issues raised by Deputy O'Brien.

I will ask the Minister for Defence about the report to which the Deputy referred but I assume it ought to be available under the Freedom of Information Act.

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