Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 13: To ask the Minister for Defence the plans he has to increase the retirement age of commandants and lieutenant colonels from 56 years of age and 58 years of age to 60 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2771/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Question 29: To ask the Minister for Defence if consideration is being given to raising the age of retirement for Army officers to 60; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2931/07]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 29 together.

There are no immediate plans to extend the retirement age of officers in the Defence Forces. The 2000 White Paper on Defence and the earlier Defence Force Review Implementation Plan both recommended reduction to retirement ages in an effort to address the age profile and fitness of the Defence Forces. The White Paper also envisaged officers attaining senior rank at a younger age.

In addition a key element in military life is the need for personnel to maintain a level of fitness for combat readiness. This requirement must be balanced with the need to retain experience and expertise, particularly at managerial level in the Defence Forces.

I am aware of the recent changes in the retirement age for new recruits to other parts of the public service. I will continue to monitor the operational and other needs of the Defence Forces in this regard and remain mindful of ongoing experiences elsewhere in the public services.