Written answers

Wednesday, 26 November 2008

Department of Defence

Departmental Expenditure

10:00 pm

Photo of Richard BrutonRichard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 97: To ask the Minister for Defence the reason, in respect of the published Estimates for the Public Service 2009, the total estimated expenditure for 2009 under the administration sub-heads for his Department, that is, those relating to his Department itself, is estimated to decrease by 1% from 2008, while the estimated decrease under the sub-heads relating to the Defence Forces and other services is 4%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42920/08]

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The Administration subheads of the Defence Estimate for 2009 represent a small proportion (less than 3%) of the total Estimate. Pay of the civil service staff of the Department accounts for the bulk of the expenditure under these subheads. In that regard the pay provision for 2009 represents a reduction in real terms of 3% on the 2008 allocation.

In the current economic situation, it is not possible to continue the same level of expenditure on Defence Forces' equipment and infrastructure as has taken place in recent years. A number of capital building projects will be deferred and some equipment replacement programmes are likely to be completed over a longer period. However, the allocation for 2009 will enable the Defence Forces to maintain their current level of operations at home and abroad, including the overseas peace support operations in Chad and Kosovo.

Photo of Aengus Ó SnodaighAengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 99: To ask the Minister for Defence if he has explored the possibility of ending inefficient spending practices as an alternative to closing barracks. [42804/08]

Photo of Willie O'DeaWillie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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As I have said in response to many questions in this House, Defence Forces expenditure and properties are kept under constant review in terms of addressing Defence Force requirements and ensuring the most appropriate organisation of the Defence Forces taking account of the operational requirements and available resources. The procurement and purchasing procedures are designed and operated to ensure the Department achieves value for money in accordance with Government financial procedures. Expenditure undertaken by my Department is also subject to examination and audit by the Comptroller & Auditor General.

The closure of barracks and the consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective of the White Paper on Defence. The closure of the Barracks is more than just a financial or value for money issue. The consolidation process is designed to facilitate higher training standards, while also freeing up under-utilised resources and personnel for operational duties. The dispersal of personnel over an extended number of locations is a major impediment to essential collective training. It also imposes increased and unnecessary overheads on the Defence Forces in terms of barrack management, administration, maintenance and security.

The development and increased capability of the modern Defence Forces when taken together with the improved security situation along the border has removed the rationale for having seven barracks/posts along the border and provided the opportunity for consolidation of units in a smaller number of locations.

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