Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 34: To ask the Minister for Defence if he envisages a further reduction in Defence Forces personnel, in view of the ongoing reduction of 250 staff; if this reduction in staff affects Ireland's ability to deal with the current terrorist threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24190/04]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The White Paper on defence in February 2000 provided for an overall strength of 10,500 for the Defence Forces with the option of an additional 250 recruits in training at any one time. In the event, no operational requirement to exercise the additional 250 option arose. It was decided, having regard to training requirements, an assessment of the defence and security environment and for budgetary planning purposes, that the option could be phased out. The special provision for up to an additional 250 recruits in training, over and above the 10,500 figure, no longer applies. In future, recruits in training will be provided for within the overall White Paper strength of 10,500 for the Permanent Defence Force.

It is my intention to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Permanent Defence Force will continue to maintain the strength at the level set out in the White Paper as required to meet military needs. From January 2004 to date there has been an intake of 278 general service recruits. The requirements for further intakes are reviewed on an ongoing basis.

It is important to note that the baseline White Paper strength figure of 10,500 is being maintained and I envisage no reduction in that. I am also satisfied that the current strength is adequate to meet all needs arising at home and overseas.