Jim O'Keeffe
Question:52 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has for the future of the FCA. [22766/98]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Reserve.
The FCA is a voluntary organisation and in the circumstances the commitment and dedication of its members cannot be commended too highly. The contribution of FCA personnel to the community is considerable and is recognised and valued throughout the country. As part of the Defence Forces restructuring and reorganisation process, a special study of the Reserve Defence Force, which consists of the FCA and the Slua Muirí, is taking place at present. In that regard there is a consultative process in train which is intended to elicit the views of serving members of the reserve on the future development of the organisation. The representative bodies are also involved in this process. It is anticipated that the study of the Reserve Defence Force will be completed in early 1999 and in the meantime no new plans for the FCA will be formulated.