Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Question 9: To ask the Minister for Defence his plans for the future of the Reserve Defence Forces; the estimated numbers it will recruit over 2012 and 2013 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6714/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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A value for money review of the Defence Forces Reserve is ongoing and the recommendations arising from it will inform future plans for the reserve. In addition, I have initiated a major reorganisation of the Defence Forces in response to the outcome of the comprehensive review of expenditure. This will encompass a reduction in the number of Army brigades from three to two which will necessarily impact and include the Defence Forces Reserve. The steering committee undertaking the VFM review will consider the way ahead in the light of the wider reorganisation to take place.

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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I am happy the Minister has confirmed 400 new recruits and I ask if these will be recruited through public advertisement or from within the system. As regards the overall future of the RDF and its role in the Defence Forces, will the value for money review dovetail with the White Paper or is it a separate exercise? What is the timeline for the completion of the value for money review during 2012?

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The issue of the Reserve Defence Force will have to be addressed within the overall reorganisation and these reorganisation matters will not be delayed by the production of the White Paper. As the Green Paper will be produced towards the end of the year, part of 2013 will be taken up with the public process and the White Paper will come thereafter. I hope there will be a clearer view at an earlier stage with regard to the Reserve Defence Force unless some issue arises that is perceived to be best left to the Green Paper - White Paper process.

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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What about recruitment?

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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That matter is being addressed at the moment.