Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I have no doubt the Deputy will ask me a question to ensure the relevant information comes back to the House. There is a specific issue here, namely, to ensure we maintain Defence Forces which have the operational capability to meet all their obligations and have an age profile which makes this possible. Without saying any more that would in any way disrupt the discussions which will take place, this is an important issue to bear in mind, as is the history of previous negotiations and agreements that were concluded and in which PDFORRA was engaged.

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