Bernard J. Durkan
Question:174 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which military training and equipment is being updated to meet future requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5011/03]
Vol. 561 No. 5
174 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which military training and equipment is being updated to meet future requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5011/03]
The primary focus of the Defence Forces, when not engaged in operations, is training and preparation. As outlined in the White Paper on Defence, the appropriate training for all Defence Forces' personnel is based on conventional military doctrine to prepare them to fulfil the roles laid down by Government. The Defence Forces training centre in the Curragh has the important role of overseeing the training requirements of all personnel.
Training in the Defence Forces continues to be conducted in two basic forms: first, that of individual training, where the individual is trained in personal skills; and second, that of collective training, where the team as a unit is trained to accomplish tasks outside the scope of the individual. Training is ongoing to ensure that the Defence Forces can carry out their day-to-day roles, both at home and overseas, as required.