Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Jul 1996

Vol. 467 No. 7

Written Answers. - FCA Personnel Training.

Michael Bell

Question:

435 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has in his Department to consider the restoration of a minimum of two weeks' annual training for FCA personnel during annual training camp; the effect, if any, of any such change on a cost analysis basis; if he will give favourable consideration to including the provisions for the restoration of a two weeks' training period for annual training camp in 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14272/96]

Michael Bell

Question:

436 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has to consider the restoration of a minimum of two weeks' annual training for FCA personnel during annual training camp; his views on the effects of such a change; the costs involved; if he will restore the two weeks' training period for annual training camp in 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14384/96]

Minister for Defence (Mr. Barrett)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 436 together.

Annual training of the Reserve Defence Force is kept under review and at present there are no plans to increase the level of such training in 1997. The estimated additional cost of increasing the level of annual training as suggested would be £2.3 million approximately annually.