Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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351. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if changes to increase the age limit for joining the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force is being examined to improve the numbers eligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40297/20]

Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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359. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if an external provider has been considered to assist with the challenges experienced in recruiting for the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40308/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 351 and 359 together.

A review of recruitment practices and processes in the Permanent Defence Force, mandated under the High Level Implementation Plan Arising from Public Service Pay Commission report, has examined all aspects of the recruitment process as part of its work. The Review Group established in this regard was chaired by an external HR adviser and it is anticipated that its report will be finalised shortly.

The issues facing the RDF are different with capacity to process and induct new entrants being a key inhibitor. This is currently being examined.