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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 9 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 2

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Review.

Richard Bruton

Question:

38 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the implications for both personnel and barrack use within the various commands in view of the restructuring of the Army. [22730/98]

The restructuring and reorganisation of the Permanent Defence Force is proceeding in accordance with the recommendations of the Defence Forces review implementation plan which was approved by Government in March 1996. On 1 October 1998 Defence Forces headquarters was established in the Department of Defence and replaces the three military branches that had existed in the Department. The Army component of the Permanent Defence Force was reorganised on 1 November 1998 and now comprises three Army brigades, a Defence Forces training centre, a logistics base and some other elements such as the Equitation School and the Defence Forces School of Music.

It is to be expected that the reorganisation of the Defence Forces will have some implications for the membership in the same way that restructuring and/or reorganisation in any organisation in the public or private sector has implications for the staff of such organisations. However, in the Defence Forces every effort is being made to ensure that a minimum number of personnel are inconvenienced as little as possible by the ongoing reorganisation. With regard to the deployment of personnel, it is envisaged that, as far as possible, all personnel will be facilitated to the greatest extent possible.

Six military barracks were selected for closure which has resulted in units and personnel stationed in these barracks being relocated in the nearest barracks. At the present time, no further barrack closures are under consideration.

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