Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I accept the point made by Deputy Deenihan with regard to the 2007 programme for Government. It is true that things have changed very dramatically in economic terms since then. The McCarthy report recommended a reduction in numbers from 10,500 to 10,000 and that has been agreed. In response to Deputy O'Shea, when we start recruiting, we should in the initial phase try to ensure people are recruited to areas where there is more urgent need. There is considerable urgency in some areas, but I have not completed consideration of reports from the Department and military officials with regard to those areas. This is an important starting point, but I cannot tell the Deputy exactly how long it will take to start. There will be no delay on my side and judging by indications from both the Department and the military authorities, they are very keen to proceed to ensure we have the necessary numbers in all areas.

The issue of early retirement is an interesting question. In the current economic climate, what is happening is the opposite to what I would have expected. One could understand that in an era when alternative employment opportunities were readily available, army people with their skill sets would be attractive to employers and would be attracted to that option, but there are far fewer such opportunities available now. We are examining the situation to see why people are continuing to leave. I also have considerable concern with regard to the age profile, which is something that had to be addressed some decades ago. This issue is a concern that is separate from the numbers issue and recruitment will be necessary to address it.

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