Written answers

Tuesday, 28 June 2011

Department of Justice, Equality and Defence

Defence Forces Recruitment

8:00 pm

Photo of Nicky McFaddenNicky McFadden (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 58: To ask the Minister for Defence when the Defence Forces will be recruiting again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17025/11]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force was suspended in late 2008 pending a review of the best means by which to achieve the reduction of 3% in payroll costs that had been applied, in common with other areas of the public service, to the Defence Forces. The present position is that, within the context of consolidating the public finances, the Government is focused firmly on maintaining the operational efficiency of the Defence Forces. To this end, targeted recruitment was carried out in 2010 and 2011. The Military Authorities have advised that to the end of May 2011 a total of 265 General Service Recruits have been enlisted. There are no plans for further general service recruitment to the Permanent Defence Force at this time.

There will be an intake of 30 cadets from the Cadetship Competition in 2011 and a number of technical appointments will also be filled.

With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, I intend to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing 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 both at home and overseas.

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