Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I fully agree with the sentiments expressed by my colleague, Deputy Aylward, on the need to urgently improve the pay and conditions of Permanent Defence Force, PDF, members. It is necessary to ensure we retain the members. I understand the approved establishment figure is at a strength of 9,500 members. What is the current enlistment figure? What proposals does the Minister of State have to ensure a substantial increase in the number of serving PDF members in 2019? We are aware of the upcoming challenges. Other Departments are recruiting in advance of Brexit and the possibility of the return of a border on our island. I would like to know what is happening in respect of the Permanent Defence Force.

See this speech in context