Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

I am advised the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by the Government at home and overseas. While a detailed response to the submission to the Minister for Finance has not yet been received, the objective is to achieve the implementation of the Government decision on savings measures in public service numbers in a manner that gives protection to the operational capacity of the Permanent Defence Force while meeting its obligations to contribute to the necessary public service economies.

The decision to reduce Permanent Defence Force numbers, as outlined in the White Paper, was the correct decision. The Defence Forces have subsequently delivered all services requested by the Government. This reduction in strength did not adversely affect the provision of services. Instead, significant gains and enhanced service provision have been achieved in the intervening years.

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