Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

The recent Government decision on savings measures on public service numbers is being implemented in the Defence Forces. The implications of the decision are under consideration by my officials in consultation with the military authorities and the Department of Finance.

I am advised that the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by the Government at home and overseas. The Defence Forces have improved in every respect since 2000 through the implementation of the White Paper. This represents a significant public service success story. The organisation is therefore in a healthy state in terms of personnel and equipment.

The economic reality is such that the Government decision must be implemented. It can be anticipated that further flexibility and restructuring will be required arising from the implementation of these measures. Therefore, I intend, within the resources available, to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate efficiently across all roles. This will represent a significant challenge in the coming years and one in respect of which I will work closely with the Chief of Staff.

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