Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 3 Jul 1996

Vol. 468 No. 1

Written Answers. - Defence Forces' Morale.

Seán Power

Question:

16 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the serious morale problem that exists within the Defence Forces; the steps, if any, he intends to take to redress the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14576/96]

Minister for Defence (Mr. Barrett)

I am assured by the military authorities that there is no morale problem in the Defence Forces. The current major reorganisation of the Defence Forces necessarily requires the introduction of significant changes in the structures and operational methods of the Defence Forces, the objective of which is to ensure that the Defence Forces will be accommodated, staffed, equipped and organised so as to meet effectively, efficiently and economically the challenges of the future, to the benefit of military personnel and the taxpayer alike. This is an indication of the key importance of the Defence Forces in the protection of law and order in our democratic society and is recognised as such by members of the Defence Forces and has the full agreement of the military authorities.

The EAG implementation plan on the areas of organisation and structures, personnel and manpower policies, training and education, logistics and command, control and management of the Defence Forces is a comprehensive programme designed to address many of the deficiencies which have been identified in the organisation. A phased programme of restructuring will now be undertaken to develop the Defence Forces as a modern organisation capable of fulfilling the tasks which are assigned to it. I am confident that the new organisation will further enhance the sense of personal pride in the armed forces and the dedication and commitment to its tasks which have been the hallmark of members of the Defence Forces over the years.