Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 26 together.

Arising from the Government's comprehensive review of expenditure, the strength ceiling of the Permanent Defence Force was reduced to 9,500 personnel. In response to this reduced strength ceiling, I initiated a major reorganisation of the Defence Forces, both permanent and reserve. The reorganisation will ensure that, within the strength level of 9,500 Pemanent Defence Force personnel, the operational effectiveness of the Permanent Defence Force is prioritised. A reduction in the number of Army brigades from the current three to two will bolster the availability of operational personnel by reducing the numbers of military personnel assigned to administrative and support functions. I tasked the Chief of Staff and the Secretary General of the Department of Defence to bring forward detailed proposals for my consideration. Work is ongoing in this regard. The Deputies will appreciate that in advance of receiving a final report, I will not be in a position to discuss likely options or recommendations or to release aspects of the approach as this is an ongoing deliberative process.

The representative associations and other relevant stakeholders will be consulted on matters that fall within their remit when options on the re-organised structure are considered and the likely impacts are known.

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