John O'Mahony
Question:312 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Defence his plans for recruitment to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6360/11]
View answerTuesday, 5 April 2011
Questions (295)
Written answers
Within the context of consolidating the public finances, the Government is focused firmly on maintaining the operational efficiency of the Permanent Defence Force. In the context of Budget 2010 the previous Government approved a level of 10,000 all ranks. This reflects the reductions in personnel recommended in the Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes. However in 2011, the Permanent Defence Force, like all areas of the public service, will operate on a reduced budget. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force as of 28 February, 2011 was 9,582 comprising 7,805 Army, 761 Air Corps and 1,016 Naval Service personnel. Targeted recruitment is being carried out in 2011 in order to maintain the operational capability of the Defence Forces. In this regard approval has been granted for the recruitment of 200 general service recruits in 2011. In addition there will be an intake of 30 cadets from the Cadetship Competition 2011 and a number of technical appointments will be filled.
I can confirm that with the support of the Chief of Staff, and within the resources available, I intend to retain the capacity of the organisation to operate effectively across all roles while contributing to the necessary public service economies.
While these are challenging times, my priority is to ensure that the Defence Forces are organised, equipped and staffed in a manner which will ensure that they can continue to deliver the services required of them by Government.
I am advised that at this time the Defence Forces retain the capacity to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.