Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

My previous point was that if the Minister meets PDFORRA, he should also meet the Reserve Defence Forces Representative Association. Throughout the last period when we were dealing with the value for money report and its implications, we were receiving representations and there would be a concern. The FCA evolved into the Reserve Defence Force.

The individuals involved in these organisations across the State are civic-minded, patriotic people who, in the main, are volunteering their services and often are involved in work with various charities. They are the face of the Permanent Defence Force in local communities. We are looking at a substantial reduction in budget here and that is cause for serious concern. I have listened to what the Minister had to say, but it would be fruitful for him to meet these people and hear their concerns first hand.