Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 384: To ask the Minister for Defence the arrangements which exist for recruitment to the RDF; if the Army authorities are proactive in encouraging recruitment to this part of the Defence Forces; his plans to augment the numbers in the RDF; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6660/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The Defence Forces reserve, comprising An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil, FCA, and An Slua Muirí, recruits approximately 1,300 reservists annually. This level of recruitment reflects the success of the various campaigns and recruiting methods currently undertaken by the reserve. The Defence Forces have a proactive approach to recruiting which is particularly reflected in the reserve component of the Defence Forces stands at careers exhibitions such as those in Croke Park and the RDS. The exhibitions attract attendances in excess of 25,000 members of the public which include very large numbers of young people and satisfy the target recruit profile of the reserve. Such exhibitions are considered an important positive public relations opportunity for the Permanent Defence Force and the reserve.

In addition to the national campaign, recruiting is also ongoing at local unit level. This is done through open days, attendance at schools and reserve stands at shopping centres.