Fiona O'Loughlin (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge that the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces is a substantial one, running to 224 pages and containing 69 recommendations. It is a colossal piece of work. I appreciate the complexity and the technical nature of devising an action plan to implement these findings. However, we cannot fall at the first hurdle. There must be a time-bound element to it.

The report calls for a major investment in the three arms of the Defence Forces, the Air Corps, Naval Service and Army. We must deliver the funding required for the people serving our country in order for them to be able to live a decent life and have a decent lifestyle for themselves and their families.I have no doubt there is a time element but the Oireachtas and the Cabinet, as bodies, have a responsibility to play a part in advancing the agenda. The request is very clear from the perspective of the Commission on the Defence Forces and Defence Forces personnel. They want a well-funded multi-annual plan that will transform the operations of our Defence Forces, as well as providing a viable and sustainable career path for Defence Forces personnel. I have no doubt in the Department's ability to deliver that but must be prioritised.

The Minister of State indicated in his response to me that the Minister for Defence will respond shortly. Will the Minister of State absolutely guarantee this will be done before the summer recess because that is what is required?