Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 126: To ask the Minister for Defence if he has proposals under active consideration to increase the retirement age for officers within the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8700/07]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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There are no current 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.