Defence Forces Recruitment.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 June 2004

Wednesday, 16 June 2004

Questions (80)

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence when the next recruitment is likely in respect of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18116/04]

Written answers

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The White Paper on Defence, published in February 2000, sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force, comprising 8,426 for the Army, 930 for the Air Corps and 1,144 for the Naval Service. I intend to maintain the Government's established policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Permanent Defence Force will continue to maintain the strength at a level required to meet military needs, as set out in the White Paper — 10,500 personnel in the Permanent Defence Force among all ranks. It is envisaged that approximately 486 personnel will be recruited to the Permanent Defence Force in 2004, comprising general service recruits, cadets, Air Corps apprentices and direct entry personnel.