Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes. It becomes a particular problem in the Defence Forces if disproportionate numbers of people in specialist areas are lost through headhunting. That has a cascade effect on other essential functions. That is why we are looking specifically at specialist areas. We are looking at the role of the Reserve and we are looking at civilianisation to fill some of those specialist roles, where appropriate.

That matter is under discussion with a civil military implementation group detailed to look at it. I have no doubt that the most difficult thing will not be buying new ships, helicopters, planes or a new fleet of armoured vehicles; it will be about managing people and getting the numbers we need over the next six to ten years to deliver the enlargement of our Defence Forces that we are looking for.

I do not have the Workplace Relations Commission ruling in front of me, but any ruling will be taken seriously and needs to be responded to comprehensively.