Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We are 1,000 people short. That is the straight answer to that question. We need to get back up to 9,500 and if the commission recommends more, we will have to consider that and we will do so, as a Government.

On the 1994 contract issue, I have spoken to quite a few personnel who are affected by this. I have given them a commitment that we will give them clarity 12 months out, well before it would take effect at the end of next year, should there be changes. I want to try to deliver on that but it is not within my gift alone. We are working with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform which has a job to do here in terms of the cost and pension implications. We are trying to finalise those discussions so that I can give clarity, as I said I would, before the end of the year. I want to try to give a full 12 months notice vis-à-visany changes that may be made. I have spoken to PDFORRA about this. It knows my views and I will meet association again next week.

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