Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I appreciate the fitness profile is important for the Permanent Defence Force but age is no longer the sole determinant of fitness. In general employment, we are moving away from deciding such matters purely on the basis of age. My understanding is approximately 700 personnel may be required to leave the Permanent Defence Force under this clause at the end of next year. They are entitled to be able to do their planning properly. I understand the Minister spoke on this matter in the Seanad this week. In response to Senator Wall and others he said he hoped to be able to make a decision on the post-1994 contracts "soon". He has not said that to me today. Is it still his position that by the end of this year he will be able to give definitive guidance to all those affected by this matter?

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