Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 19: To ask the Minister for Defence when the recommendations of the Reserve Defence Forces review implementation plan in relation to the First Line Reserve will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20010/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation plan provides for a phased approach to enhancing the capabilities of the Reserve over the period to the end of 2009. The introduction of new RDF organisational structures, the development of new training syllabi, improved equipment and clothing have successfully been delivered as part of phase 1 of the plan. Phase 2 of the Implementation plan is currently being implemented and a pilot scheme for the integrated Army Reserve is under way. A total of 180 personnel have completed the required training in 2007. In line with the Implementation plan timeframe, recommendations with respect to the First Line Reserve are to be brought forward during phase 2. Development of the First Line Reserve is also included in the Modernisation Agenda agreed with the Defence Forces Representative Associations in the context of Towards 2016 and will be advanced accordingly.