Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 October 2012
444. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if his approval was sought by the military authorities to issue instructions to cancel Reserve Defence Forces training with effect from 1 November 2012; the action he has directed to ensure that timely information is conveyed to RDF unit commanders and reservists arising from the reorganisation of the Permanent Defence Forces. [41568/12]
View answerI understand that internal military communications relating to the ongoing implementation of the re-organisation of the Permanent Defence Force and associated housekeeping matters, raised concerns amongst members of the Reserve. When these concerns were raised by RDFRA, it was quickly clarified, that there was no intention to close Reserve Units or to cease training activities. I am satisfied that there is a robust communication system in place, through my Department’s Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) Branch, to effectively and speedily address queries from RDFRA. The implementation of the new organisational structures for the Permanent Defence Force is ongoing and the primary impact of this re-organisation is on members of the PDF. However, RDFRA are being appraised of developments and I understand that there is a further meeting scheduled with my Department’s C&A Branch on 5th October in this regard.
