Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Tánaiste mentioned a target for Defence Forces strength of 11,500 by 2028. The current figure is 7,500 and we are, I am told, losing 50 personnel net per month. Critical to reaching our 2028 target is having an Army that is regionally disposed to aid retention and facilitate recruitment. I would argue a decision needs to be taken relatively quickly to ensure we meet the stated objectives of the commission's report. I presume the Government accepts the commission's recommendations. Will the Tánaiste clarify that? If it does accept them, those recommendations clearly state the Army structure should involve a stand-alone Army with its own headquarters in a central location. To me it is as clear as day versus night that the central location should be Custume Barracks, Athlone.

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