Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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Question 727: To ask the Minister for Defence if he will reaffirm his commitment to the future of Custume Barracks, Athlone, County Westmeath; if he will commit to ensuring that this barracks will remain as a headquarters for any new brigade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26476/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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In response to the revised strength ceiling of 9,500 Permanent Defence Force personnel, a major re-organisation of the Defence Forces, including the Reserve Defence Force, has been initiated and will encompass a reduction in the number of Army Brigades from the current three to two. The primary focus of the re-organisation is to free up the maximum number of military personnel from administrative and support tasks. It is the Government's intention that the Defence Forces retain the capacity to fulfil all of the assigned roles, to the greatest extent possible.

I have asked the Chief of Staff and the Secretary General of the Department of Defence to bring forward detailed proposals for my consideration. This will include proposals regarding territorial areas of responsibility and the location of Brigade Headquarters. It will also include proposals relating to the Reserve Defence Force, which is currently organised along similar lines to the Permanent Defence Force. This task is a significant undertaking and there are a range of issues that must be considered. However, the primary focus will be the maintenance of operational outputs and capabilities. This work is underway and I am being kept informed of progress.

You will appreciate that in advance of receipt and consideration of proposals from the Secretary General and the Chief of Staff, I will not be in a position to comment on any speculation relating to the re-organisation. I do not intend to pre-empt the work of the Chief of Staff and the Secretary General and limit their scope to bring forward recommendations.