Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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190. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason for the reduction in the basic training hours provided to new recruits into the Defence Forces; the steps he is taking to ensure this does not negatively impact the level of professionalism within the Defence Forces; the way in which he plans to address the wider issue of retention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43360/17]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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The changes to the Recruit Training Syllabus referred to by the Deputy we re made by the Military Authorities following a routine review, which identified elements of training being deemed more appropriate to a later stage within the development cycle of the enlisted soldier than heretofore had been the case. Such reviews are intended to ensure that training syllabi remain efficient and effective. As there is a level of turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Forces which is higher than the rest of the public service, targeted recruitment has been and is currently taking place so as to maintain the agreed strength levels. The level of turnover also reflects that a significant number of personnel leave before the completion of basic training. In 2017, the Defence Forces have been targeting an increase in the level of recruitment across the range of recruitment streams. A total of 99 Cadets were recently inducted (on the 25th September 2017) of which, just over 20% were female. General Service recruitment campaigns for both the Army and Naval Service were launched earlier this year. These competitions have progressed and general service recruitment has commenced from these campaigns. A further General Service recruitment campaign was launched in late September.

As with other areas of the public service, challenges have arisen in relation to the recruitment and retention of certain skilled personnel, including Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers. This challenge was highlighted in the Department of Defence submission to the Public Service Pay Commission and can be considered when the Commission begins its next phase of work.

At the recent PDFORRA Annual Delegate Conference, I also announced a range of measures relating to contracts, promotions and other issues which had been identified within the Defence Forces Climate Survey. The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with operational requirements.

With the support of the Chief of Staff and within the resources available, the Government is committed to retaining the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.