The amount spent by my Department on the purchase of uniforms, boots and other clothing worn by members of the Defence Forces in the period mentioned is as follows: 2004 —€2.30 million; 2005 —€2.60 million; and 2006 to date —€0.087 million.
In the main this expenditure has been incurred by the purchase of the following uniforms, etc.
|
2004
|
2005
|
2006
|
Total
|
|
€m
|
€m
|
€m (proposed)
|
€m
|
Service Dress (Package)
|
0.129
|
0.273
|
0.250
|
0.652
|
DPM Dress (Package)
|
1.795
|
1.195
|
1.100
|
4.090
|
Footwear
|
0.376
|
1.132
|
1.150
|
2.658
|
There have been significant improvements in the clothing of members of the Defence Forces over the last number of years. In this connection, I would particularly mention the introduction of the DPM dress package and the service dress package. The term "package" refers to the provision of a full outfit of matching clothing for the individual soldier. The introduction of these new uniforms have proved both economical and practical and has been an asset to the Defence Forces in their many operations.