Seán Power
Question:9 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Defence the major impediments to the effective training of our Defence Forces; the future plans, if any, he has for such training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8248/96]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Training.
The consultants employed by the Efficiency Audit Group to carry out a review of the Defence Forces commented favourably on the extent to which conventional military skills have been retained within the system and the high standard in officer training and technical training at individual level. However, the consultants found that the standard of collective training was inadequate, due mainly to the existence of a multiplicity of small sized units and the widespread geographic dispersal of these units.
The need for improved levels of training in the Defence Forces is addressed in the implementation plan for the next three years which was recently approved by the Government. The main elements of the plan which will enhance the training capacity of the Defence Forces are a revised organisational structure for the Permanent Defence Force comprising a smaller number of operational units each with increased strengths; a reduction in the number of headquarters units; a reduction in the number of military personnel involved in purely administrative duties; and the establishment of a Defence Forces training centre at the Curragh camp which will have a wide ranging responsibility for the education and training of all ranks.