Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I might come at it from a more positive viewpoint than how the Deputy characterises it. However, I agree with the general point that before we talk about deploying anyone anywhere, we have to make sure we have enough people who are adequately trained, adequately equipped and have the best infrastructure and capabilities available. On that, we might differ in areas of emphasis, but I accept that the Deputy wishes, as I hope he accepts I do, for the men and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann to be properly resourced and that the number of people in the Defence Forces grows.

As I said, the number grew last year, albeit from a very low base. It was the first year in a number of years that we saw a stabilisation in recruitment and retention. We need to drive that on this year as well.

I accept that we have ventilated this a lot and that we will have many more chances to do so in the time ahead. The Bill will also consider other provisions, including additional circumstances around undertaking military close protection duties, emergency evacuation of Irish citizens from volatile security environments and a new purpose of participation in international operations to counter illicit trafficking by sea and air. We have an important role to play in that as an island nation. The legislation will address that too.

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