Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

Nevertheless, we are in difficult economic times and each Department must accept a certain amount of pain. Considering the figures, the Department is accepting less of the pain than others in recognition of what it has achieved in the past.

I am acutely aware of those who went through the process and were then told they cannot join the reserve. I am discussing this matter with the Department of Finance and my officials. I will make an announcement on the cadets as soon as I have had talks with my colleague, the Minister for Finance.

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