Bernard J. Durkan
Question:110 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied with the current strength of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1529/05]
View answerWednesday, 26 January 2005
Questions (56)
Written answers
The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 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. It is my intention to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Permanent Defence Force will continue to maintain the strength at the level set out in the White Paper as required to meet military needs.
The strength of the Permanent Defence Force, comprising the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, as of 31 December 2004 was as follows:
|
Army |
8,369 |
|
Air Corps |
871 |
|
Naval Service |
1,053 |
|
Total P.D.F. |
10,293 |
In addition, there were 258 recent recruits undergoing training on 31 December 2004.
The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women in the Defence Forces, including the Reserve Defence Force, and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities.