Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
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Question 117: To ask the Minister for Defence if he has received recommendations and a proposed plan of action with respect to the first line reserve on foot of the proposals that have been prepared by the military authorities; if not, when he expects to receive them; if the Defence Forces representative associations will be consulted on these recommendations and proposed plan of action before implementation; when such consultations will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3594/09]

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 Implementation Plan.

Phase 2 of the Plan is currently being implemented and in line with the Implementation plan timeframe, proposals with respect to the First Line Reserve have been prepared by the Military Authorities. My Department has been discussing the development of the FLR with the military authorities and further information has been sought in relation to the proposals. I look forward to reviewing the recommendations and a proposed plan of action in due course.

The Implementation Group will develop the timeframe for the implementation of recommendations as soon as these have been agreed. The representative associations will be consulted prior to any implementation of recommendations.

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.

My primary objective is to ensure that the experience and knowledge of the former Permanent Defence Force personnel of the First Line Reserve is utilised for the maximum benefit of the Defence Forces.