Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

Will the memorandum the Minister is presenting to Government contain an estimated cost for producing the White Paper? Will he give an indicative date by which it should be completed?

Deputy Stanton asked about the value for money review of the RDF. Where does that stand? Will it be concluded in time to be considered in the context of the White Paper? A member of the general staff should head up the RDF because there is a view within the organisation that until that happens, it will never be taken as seriously as it should. I have raised this with the Minister previously The Minister indicated he favours the participation of RDF members in overseas missions. I take it that will be considered and included in the White Paper.

There has been speculation recently that the Irish Army's participation in battle groups could be directed towards natural disasters and similar events. The Minister has an interest in this. Is this likely to be considered in the White Paper?

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