Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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434. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the steps taken to date or pending to ensure that the strength of the Defence Forces is restored to optimum levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37052/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The establishment of the Permanent Defence Force, as set out in the White Paper for Defence is 9,500 personnel. The military authorities have advised that, at 30th September 2020, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, was 8,529 personnel.

Despite the difficulties posed by the Covid situation, recruitment has continued, albeit at reduced rate, and there have been 449 inductions to date this year. This figure includes re-commissioned Air Corps pilots and re-enlisted personnel, initiatives designed to address requirements in specialist areas.

A range of other measures have been undertaken in an effort to restore numbers to establishment strength. The High Level Plan - Strengthening Our Defence Forces - Phase 1 arising from the Public Service Pay Commission Report on recruitment and retention, is a key part of the response. The immediate pay increases recommended in the report have been delivered and further pay measures will be considered as part of the next round of public sector pay negotiations.  The other recommendations are all being progressed.

I have also recently introduced a new sea-going service commitment scheme for Naval Service personnel  following on from the introduction of a successful service commitment scheme for Flying Officers in the Air Corps. An extension of the sea-going tax credit for Naval Service Personnel has also been agreed.

Working closely with the Secretary General and the Chief of Staff, I am committed to addressing the current challenges that are facing the Defence Forces.