Lisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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288. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of the Defence Forces Reserve lieutenant to captain fixed promotion scheme in view of the fact that 37 reserve officers considered for promotion are facing a delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45296/17]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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The White Paper on Defence confirms that the primary role of the Army and Naval Service Reserve is to augment the Permanent Defence Force in times of crisis. In non-crisis situations, the main focus will be on training to prepare for this role. The Government appreciates the service of the members of the Army and Naval Service Reserve and the White Paper on Defence is clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the Reserves. I am informed by the military authorities that there are 43 Reserve Officers (Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve) eligible for promotion to the rank of Captain, and that these promotions will take place prior to the end of Q4 2017.