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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Feb 2003

Vol. 561 No. 5

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Strength.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

167 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the future strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; the extent to which this represents an increase or decrease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5003/03]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

169 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the future development of the Defence Forces; if the closure of any existing installations is being contemplated; his views on the wisdom of such policy at this particular time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5005/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 167 and 169 together.

The Governments plans for the future development of the Defence Forces are set out in detail in the White Paper on Defence, the implementation of which is well advanced, and in the Programme for Government published in June 2002. There are no plans to close any existing installations. The White Paper, as endorsed by the programme for Government, provides for a total permanent Defence Force strength of 10,500, plus the option of an extra 250 recruits in training. The 10,500 figure, which represents an overall reduction of 1,000 on the pre-White Paper strength position, is made up as follows: Army, 8,426; Naval Service, 1,144 and Air Corps, 930. As provided for in the White Paper, all payroll savings arising from the reduction in numbers have been reinvested in new equipment and better infrastructure for the Defence Forces.

Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 122.

Question No. 170 answered with Question No. 114.

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