Bernard J. Durkan
Question:160 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if further reductions in the strength of the Defence Forces is anticipated or planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30873/01]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Strength.
The White Paper sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force, comprising 930 for the Air Corps, 1,144 for the Naval Service and 8,426 for the Army. No reduction in the overall strength of the Defence Forces is anticipated or planned.
It is my intention to maintain the established Government policy of continuous recruitment to fill vacancies as required. I launched the Defence Forces 2001 general service recruiting campaign in March 2001, which was followed by national and local media advertising. The 2001 annual cadet competition was successful in recruiting some 64 cadets for the Defence Forces. Special "direct entry" competitions are also held from time to time in order to recruit prequalified personnel for specialist technical appointments. To date in 2001, 17 officers have been appointed from such competitions. "Direct entry" competitions for appointments for engineer officers in the ordnance corps, electrical engineers in the Naval Service and medical and dental officers in the medical corps will be advertised shortly. The annual cadet competition will be advertised early next year.
Question No. 161 answered with Question No. 89.