Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

On 15 May 2010 I addressed the 16th delegate conference of the Reserve Defence Force Representative Association, RDFRA. In my address I dealt with a range of issues, including the current challenging economic circumstances, which have required the Government to take tough and decisive action and which has won international respect. I made the point that whereas some of the necessary measures have been unpalatable, the Government is determined to do what it takes to put Ireland back on the road to sustainable economic recovery and growth.

Other issues I addressed related to recruitment and promotion, and the value for money review of the Reserve Defence Forces, RDF. The position on recruitment and promotion is that, as with the broader public service, the defence organisation is required to operate with reduced funding in 2010. Limited recruitment in order to replace existing members who leave the RDF was sanctioned last May. This is subject to the overall strength figure that existed at 1 January 2009, which was 7,671, not being exceeded. This ongoing limited recruitment is being closely monitored and will be kept under review in the light of the future budgetary provision available to the Department of Defence.

I outlined the position on the value for money review of the Reserve Defence Force being carried out under the Government's 2009 to 2011 programme of value for money and policy reviews on which work has recently commenced. I confirmed that RDFRA, as a key stakeholder, would be consulted during the course of the review. I informed the conference that it is envisaged that the review will be completed by the end of 2010. It is planned that the findings of the review, together with the lessons learned from the Reserve Defence Force review implementation plan, will assist in informing decisions regarding the future development of the Reserve Defence Force. I look forward to receiving the steering committee's recommendations in this regard.

I also updated delegates on a number of specific issues which had been raised by the RDFRA general secretary and executive members when I met them on 28 April 2010. The issues included the post of the director of the Reserve Defence Forces and the position of paid training. With regard to the director appointment, I advised that this is being dealt with in the context of the review of structures and posts in the Permanent Defence Force. With regard to training I confirmed my commitment to ensure that in 2010, reservists who complete specified voluntary unpaid training will be afforded the opportunity to avail of a minimum of seven days paid training. I complimented the reserve on the time and commitment that members of the Reserve Defence Force have voluntarily given since the formation of the State.

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