Seán Connick (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Question 32: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of members of the Permanent Defence Force on 30 September 2009; if he expects this total to rise or fall before the end of 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34745/09]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 50: To ask the Minister for Defence the degree to which the strength of the Army, Navy and Air Corps is sufficient to meet requirements in view of the overseas commitments, current and proposed; if it is expected or intended to increase the numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34930/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 50 together.

I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force on 30 September 2009 was 10,081. This breaks as Army 8,231, Air Corps 812 and Naval Service 1,038. In the context of the Government decision on the implementation of savings measures and the reduced budgetary provision available for 2009, all recruitment was suspended. The moratorium on recruitment, promotion and acting appointments is a vital element in the Government's approach to bringing public sector finances under control. I am keenly aware of the impact of these measures on the Permanent Defence Force in the light of the very high turnover rate that is part of any military organisation. I am in ongoing contact with my colleague, the Minister for Finance, regarding limited exceptions to the moratorium which are targeted at maintaining the operational capability and command arrangements of the Permanent Defence Force while meeting our obligations to contribute to the necessary public service economies.

I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government at home and overseas. I am keeping the situation under review with the Chief of Staff.