Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Nov 2002

Vol. 556 No. 4

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Review.

Seán Ryan

Question:

97 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Defence the progress made to date in implementing the proposals received from the Chief of Staff for the restructuring of the Permanent Defence Force in accordance with the Government's decision on overall numbers; the consultation there has been with the representative organisations on the proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20508/02]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The Minister referred the draft proposals of the Chief of Staff to the civil-military strategic management committee for its consideration. That process has concluded and it is expected that the Minister will make his decision in the matter shortly. The representative associations will be consulted in a spirit of partnership in accordance with the system of representation.