Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am pleased to have the opportunity to discuss the key changes that are being introduced in order to ensure the future viability of the Reserve Defence Force, RDF. A value for money review of the RDF was recently completed and published. This review highlighted a range of issues that need to be addressed in order to improve the cost-effectiveness of the RDF; it also highlighted that existing organisational structures are not fit for purpose. The current effective strength of the RDF is approximately 4,500 personnel and the organisational structures were designed for a strength of 9,692 personnel. The review found that this strength was not achieved from 2006 onwards, despite the fact that there were no restrictions on recruitment prior to 2009. It also highlighted significant issues with regard to low uptakes of training within the RDF and a high turnover of personnel. All of these issues have an adverse impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the RDF.

A major reorganisation of the RDF is one of the key changes being introduced to address these findings. The new organisational structure for the Army Reserve is based on a single-force concept under which Defence Forces units will have permanent and reserve elements. These units will be based in Permanent Defence Force, PDF, installations throughout the country and in 16 locations outside of those installations. This new model will offer significant advantages in terms of training and improved interoperability and will enhance the overall capability of the Defence Forces. The changes to which I refer will reduce direct expenditure on the RDF by €11 million, while maintaining the budget for reserve training activity.

The new organisation is based on a revised strength ceiling for the reserve of 4,069 personnel - that is, 3,869 in the Army Reserve and 200 in the Naval Service Reserve. This strength level was recommended in order to ensure the maintenance of appropriate reserve capabilities within the existing resource constraints. This requires the withdrawal of gratuities from members of the reserve and reassignment of the budgetary provision into paid training. I have requested the Chief of Staff to report back to me on the other important recommendations contained in the report, including the First Line Reserve, training and recruitment and retention.

Additional information not given on the floor of the House.

Changes to Defence Forces regulations will be required for the new organisational structure. They may also arise in respect of other developments such as the increased use of the reserve in a voluntary unpaid capacity for aid to the civil authority tasks or changed criteria for retention on the effective strength of the reserve. I wish to emphasise that the contribution and commitment of each and every member of the reserve is appreciated. I sincerely hope that all members of the reserve will continue to serve within the new organisation.

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