Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 80: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of recruits that will be taken into the Defence Forces throughout 2008, broken down in respect of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26004/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The current projected figure for recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force in 2008 is in the region of 690 general service recruits, comprising 540 Army recruits, 120 Naval Service recruits and 30 Air Corps recruits. In addition in the region of 30 apprentices will be recruited. The number of cadets to be recruited is currently under consideration and is expected to be in the region of 45.

The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 set out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force as the strength sufficient to meet all foreseeable military requirements for the period comprehended by the White Paper (i.e. up to 2010). This remains the position. It is my intention to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. This recruitment will continue to maintain the strength at the level set out in the White Paper.

The agreed Programme for Government provides for an additional provision of up to 350 troops to be in training at any given time. However, due primarily to the requirement to prioritise funding for the Chad mission, it has not been possible to provide funding to activate this provision in 2008. This matter will be further considered in the context of the 2009 Estimates.

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 82: To ask the Minister for Defence if the contract has been awarded in relation to the publicity and awareness campaign to promote recruitment to the Reserve Defence Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26011/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

In line with the commitment in the Programme for Government, a publicity and awareness campaign to promote recruitment to the Reserve Defence Forces is being prepared. The campaign is likely to include advertising in print, broadcast media and via the Internet. A Request for Tender issued in March 2008. A preferred tenderer has been identified and the terms of contract are currently being negotiated.