Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There are a number of measures, such as pay and so on. A new integrated multidisciplinary state-of-the-art training centre is being developed in Gormanston where all recruits, be they Air Corps, Navy or Army, will be together. We have more to do in that regard. I am confident that with the continued investment we are committed to, we can significantly improve the situation.

There is huge choice out there in the economy at the moment. The unemployment rate is below 4%. We are working with the Defence Forces and pressing upon them the need to continue to change the culture, as we increase resources through investment in capability, facilities, pay and allowances and general overall conditions to make it a very attractive proposition for young people.

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