Nicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

I agree with Deputy Durkan that the Defence Forces are the victim of their own compliance. I am from a garrison town and my grandfather was a sergeant major in the Army. I know there is great concern about the number of non-commissioned officers who are above the age of 40. We must ensure that members of the Defence Forces are not too old to travel overseas.

According to the White Paper, the complement of the Defence Forces should be 10,500. It is now down to 9,500. I have serious concerns that the number will be reduced further. I would like the Minister to comment on this.

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