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

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. It is disappointing to note that even in the month of December the numbers declined in our Permanent Defence Force. The Minister of State will recall that at the PDFORRA conference last October, its members highlighted how large numbers of soldiers, sailors and Air Corps staff were buying themselves out of the Defence Forces because they were unhappy with the pay and conditions. As we know, PDFORRA has been a good, strong and reasonable advocate on behalf of its members. I know from speaking to PDFORRA that it is anxious that pay and conditions be improved as rapidly as possible.

The serving personnel figure of fewer than 10,000 is stretching our Army in carrying out its mandated duties. It is essential the numbers are increased in 2019. Unfortunately, there will be additional requirements on our Permanent Defence Force in the south of Ulster and along the Border. None of us want to see checkpoints again. Regardless of the outcome of Brexit - and I sincerely hope there is an agreement between the British Government and the European Union - there will be additional responsibilities on our Permanent Defence Force.

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