Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 205: To ask the Minister for Defence the expected recruitment levels within the Defence Forces in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4094/09]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for Defence if recruitment levels will be, or have been, adversely affected, by current and planned cutbacks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4095/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 205 and 206 together.

I have been advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as of 31 December 2008, the most recent date for which figures are available, was 10,408. A total of 507 recruits were enlisted into the Permanent Defence Forces during 2008. 441 were recruited to the Army and 66 to the Naval Service. In addition, 41 Cadets commenced their cadet training in September 2008.

In common with other areas of the public service a reduction of 3% in payroll costs has been applied to the Defence Forces. Recruitment was suspended in late 2008 pending a review of the best means by which to achieve this reduction. My officials and the military authorities are keeping the situation under close review on an ongoing basis. The review and any subsequent recruitment in 2009 will prioritise the operational requirements of the Defence Forces.