Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I reiterate it is not clear yet how many may retire during the course of this year. I can assure the Deputy that, in so far as retirements do take place, we will ensure that the necessary officers may be appointed to replace anyone who may retire at officer level. In so far as anyone may retire at private level or other levels within the Defence Forces, obviously this is an operational matter for discussion between me and the Chief of Staff.

As stated earlier, I am absolutely committed to maintaining both the capabilities of the Defence Forces and its operational capacity. This is a matter kept under continuing review. It is one of the reasons we are giving consideration to possibly having some additional recruitment before the end of this year.

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