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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Jun 1998

Vol. 492 No. 7

Written Answers. - Government Programme.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

143 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Defence the specific commitments, if any, set out in An Action Programme for the Millennium which have been implemented in full; the commitments, if any, implemented in part; the commitments, if any, initiated; the commitments, if any, yet to be initiated and implemented by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15045/98]

A synopsis of the defence commitments in An Action Programme for the Millennium is as follows:

Action Programme Objectives

Current Position

1.

White Paper on Defence Policy within one year (p.26).

The White paper is under preparation. I intend to have a draft available for Government in early 1999. Production of the White Paper will involve a public consultative process.

2.

Delegation of day to day administration from the Department of Defence to Defence Forces (p.26).

Good progress has been made; 64 per cent of non-pay subheads is now delegated. Ongoing progress/discussions are held with the military authorities.

3.

Continuous recruiting of 1,500 personnel over four years (p. 26).

600 were enlisted in 1997. 500 places were advertised in March 1998. 300 offers have issued to date, the balance will issue within two months. Target of overall 1,500 will likely be exceeded.

4.

Encourage increased participation of women (p.26).

Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity. The height requirement for female recruits was reduced from 5'5” to 5'4” in 1998. First females were enlisted to Slua Muirí in 1998. The first female pilot in the Air Corps received her wings in June 1998.

5.

Redefine role of the Air Corps, Naval Service and the FCA (p.26).

The Price Waterhouse report on the Air Corps and Naval Service has been presented to the EAG. A Memo for Government is under preparation by Taoiseach's Department.

The study of the Reserve is ongoing under the guidance of a joint military/civilian Steering Group. Recommendations will be submitted as soon as possible.

6.

Provide adequate equipment and accommodation for Defence Forces (p.26)

There is considerable ongoing investment. The tender procedure for procurement of Armoured Personnel Carriers is under way. From 1999 on, 50 per cent of pay savings from strength reduction will go towards equipment and infrastracture-amounting to approx. £7.5 million p.a. £14.7 million is provided in 1998 for building and maintenance.

7.

Revitalise Civil Defence towards 2000 Programme and plan for new millennium (p.26)

Local Authorities will have developed their priority programmes by 2000, -the 50th anniversary of Civil Defence. The White Paper (see 1 above) will provide an opportunity for further development.

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