Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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52. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the current strength of the Defence Forces; the number of these personnel in full-time induction training (recruits, two-star training, cadet training or apprenticeships) and therefore non-deployable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31290/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The military authorities have advised me that as of 30 April 2025, the latest date for which such information is available, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force stood at 7,512. I am further advised that there were a total of 419 personnel in training, comprising 145 2* Privates, 91 cadets, 28 Apprentices and 155 recruits.

Interest in a career in the Defence Forces remains robust and indeed grew significantly again in 2024 with total applications showing an increase of 33% across all competitions compared to the previous year. This trend has continued into 2025.

A Joint Induction Training Centre has been established in Gormanston, and the military authorities have advised that when fully operational, it will enable induction training to be provided to 900 recruits per annum.

Budget 2025 provided a record allocation of €1.35 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €100 million. In relation to specific recruitment targets, this allocation provides for the recruitment of at least a net additional 400 personnel per annum.

Whilst there are still undoubtedly challenges, significant progress has been made on a number of fronts and the allocation of record levels of expenditure to the Defence sector is illustrative of my intent in this regard.