Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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The White Paper on Defence 2000 and the Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan (2002) set out the blueprint for the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) together with an Implementation Plan extending to 2009.

The Implementation Plan is being rolled-out on a phased basis up to 2009. There has been significant progress to date in implementing the detailed recommendations of the Plan e.g. a new organisation structure implemented with effect from October 2005, major improvements in clothing, equipment, training and resourcing. In addition, the RDF is now structured along similar lines to the PDF (3 Brigades and the RDF Training Centre).

The introduction of the integrated element of the Reserve is being addressed in the current year on a pilot basis across all 3 Brigades. The Director, Defence Forces Training, has issued a comprehensive range of syllabi providing for training of the Integrated Reserve.

During the Pilot Integration Schemes personnel are not assigned to the Integrated Reserve but are attached to their affiliated PDF unit for training purposes. A total of 180 personnel have completed the training to date. This comprises 41 personnel in 2 Eastern Brigade, 67 in 1 Southern Brigade, and 72 in 4 Western Brigade. Personnel complete a minimum of twenty-one days full time training.

While the numbers participating in the Integrated Reserve have been less than anticipated, I am satisfied that the pilot schemes mark a very significant step forward in implementing the Plan.

The outcome of the pilot schemes is currently being reviewed by the military authorities. This will provide the necessary information to plan for the future development of the Integrated Reserve.