Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 245: To ask the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the Defence Forces have access to the highest quality training and logistic equipment on par with the accepted standards and requirements within the EU and UN; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46608/10]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am advised that military training techniques are up to date in all respects. Defence Forces training plans are structured to provide the capabilities needed to execute the roles assigned to them by Government. The challenges of preparing military units for participation in international peace support operations constitute the major dimension of Defence Forces collective training. The primary focus of this training is the attainment of a capability for military interoperability in order to conduct peace support operations to international standards. Training standards in the Defence Forces are constantly benchmarked against best international practice and Defence Force's personnel have full access to the best international training standards available. Significant investment has taken place in recent years across all facets and elements of the Defence Forces. The level of investment has ensured that Defence Forces personnel have the most modern and effective range of equipment, including logistical equipment, to carry our their day-to-day roles at home and overseas. The Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, like all areas of the public service, will operate on a reduced budget allocation in 2011. The steady investment in recent years means that the Defence Forces are well placed in addressing the challenges for 2011 and the adjustments required under the National Recovery Plan. The priority in the coming year will be on maintaining the capability of the Defence Forces to deliver effective services across all of the roles assigned by Government.