Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 32, 36, 91 and 373 together.

In the context of the Government decision on the implementation of savings measures in public service numbers and the reduced budgetary provision available for 2009, all recruitment to the Reserve Defence Forces had been suspended. Following a review and examination of Reserve Defence Force personnel numbers and budget, I am satisfied there is sufficient provision to allow for paid training for existing members of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve this year. Accordingly, I have recently approved the commencement of limited recruitment to fill vacancies which may arise due to existing Army Reserve or Naval Service Reserve members resigning or being discharged during 2009, in the normal manner. The numbers that may be recruited will depend on the numbers leaving and any such vacancies will be filled over the coming weeks and months, drawing from the current list of applicants. This limited recruitment will be monitored and kept under review in the light of the uptake of paid training within the Reserve Defence Force and the future budgetary provision.

The savings measures are being implemented in the Permanent Defence Force. I am in contact with my colleague, the Minister for Finance, about the implications of the measures for the Permanent Defence Force. My focus is on the ongoing operational capability of the Defence Forces. The question of limited exceptions to the application of the measures arises in this regard. It is therefore too early to confirm if there will be a cadet class this year or an intake of general service recruits.

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 both 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. I intend, within the resources available, to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively 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. I am advised that the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government at home and overseas.

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