Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 274: To ask the Minister for Defence the size and role of the First Line Reserve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42326/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The military authorities have advised that as at 31 October 2009, the First Line Reserve (FLR) comprised 360 personnel (132 Officers, 31 Non-Commissioned Officers and 197 Privates). The FLR is intended to provide a pool of trained personnel who are available at short notice to supplement Permanent Defence Force (PDF) units in times of emergency. The FLR is a potentially valuable resource and my primary concern is to ensure that the former PDF members who make up the FLR are utilised to the maximum benefit of the Defence Forces.

Phase 1 of the RDF Review Implementation Plan introduced significant changes for the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve. Phase 2 is being implemented. As the Plan is reaching its conclusion, there is a requirement to critically examine the progress that has been made to date and to consider options for the future. This will be informed by the valuable lessons learned from the implementation process. In addition, the RDF was selected for review as part of the 2009 – 2011 phase of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review initiative and this Review is scheduled to commence in the near future. It is anticipated that this review, together with the general budgetary situation, will also assist in informing decisions regarding the future development of the Reserve.