Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The Minister will consult with the Secretary General who benefits from the collective wisdom of the Department and also with the Chief of Staff who represents the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service. Therefore, everybody is being consulted. As a result of this reorganisation and other changes, at least 500 people will have the opportunity to apply to become full-time members of the Defence Forces as soon as possible and this is a good news story for those 500 people and their families. This is a great opportunity for young people and I know it will be taken up enthusiastically.

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