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

The Deputy will not be remotely surprised if I disagree with what he said. What we have tried to do is to effect a reorganisation of the RDF which reflects the reorganisation of the PDF in order that the former will be fit for purpose and include a restructured organisation which will result in a greater connectivity with the latter. We must encourage those committed individuals who are proud of their participation with the RDF and who engage in training as required. We must also ensure that money that is spent on the reserve is to the benefit of the community.

In the context of the review that was undertaken, there are currently some 4,500 members of the RDF. The most recent figure I have in respect of training for members of the RDF relates to 2011, when only 2,010 of these personnel took up the full seven days' training that is required. We are operating in a different environment now and it is not a case of taking the scalpel to anything. What we are seeking to do is to ensure we establish modern structures that reflect the reality of the functions the RDF can perform and that will facilitate greater connectivity between it and the PDF. We must also ensure that resources are not wasted. For example, the numerical strength of the cadre of staff from the PDF designated to provide training to the RDF was based on an assumption that the latter would have a staff in the region of 9,000. An RDF of that size simply does not exist. By reducing the number of PDF personnel detailed to RDF training, we have freed such personnel to engage in normal day-to-day PDF operations and training. This, in turn, has meant that public funds are not being wasted.

I have an obligation, as Minister, to ensure that at a time of reduced resources, when we will be receiving €13.5 billion - the difference between what the State is taking in and what it is spending - from the EU, the ECB and the IMF in 2013 in order to pay for essential services, we use such resources wisely. This is one of our objectives. Another of those objectives is that we should give the RDF a new lease of life. I hope the reforms being introduced will have that effect.

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