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

103. To ask the Minister for Defence the extent to which members of the Defence Forces of all ranks throughout the Army, Navy and Air Corps have access to the highest quality of training and equipment comparable to other forces throughout Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43732/14]

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

107. To ask the Minister for Defence the extent to which proposals remain ongoing to upgrade military equipment throughout the Army, Navy and Air Corps with particular reference to the need to ensure the highest possible standards and reliability in respect of vehicles, technology, air craft and sea-going vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43736/14]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 103 and 107 together.

I am satisfied that the level of resources available to the Defence Forces, including, training, equipment and up to date technology, enables the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas.

All elements of Defence expenditure were examined for the Comprehensive Review of Expenditure in 2011. In response to these resource constraints, the Defence Organisation has undertaken further significant reorganisation and reform. These changes will ensure that the Defence Forces organisational structures are configured to maximize required capabilities.

The acquisition of new equipment for the Defence Forces remains a focus for me as Minister for Defence and is a matter that is kept under constant review. The budgetary situation, in the context of the current difficult economic situation, will continue to dictate the level of funding available for new equipment, training and upgrades.

Decisions will be made accordingly on a strictly prioritised basis with a view to maintaining the capability of all roles assigned by Government to the Defence Forces.

Training standards in the Defence Forces are constantly benchmarked against best international practice. Participation in ongoing overseas operations also necessitates multi lateral-training and assessment. This facilitates ongoing review of Defence Forces training methods and standards within an international military context.

I am also satisfied that Naval Service training techniques and technologies are up to date in all respects, with the most up to date equipment, including modern technology and IT equipment available to Naval Service personnel. With the delivery this year of the LE Samuel Beckett and forthcoming delivery of two new off shore patrol vessels in 2015 and 2016, combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair on the other vessels in the fleet, the Naval Service will continue to meet the required operational capability. The Air Corps will continue to conduct its training in accordance with industry best practices and to the highest standards using the most modern methods and equipment available.