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Defence Forces Expenditure

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 July 2013

Thursday, 18 July 2013

Questions (606)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

606. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that notwithstanding the ongoing curtailments of expenditure throughout the public service arising from commitments entered into by his predecessors with the troika; if he will maintain the current extent of military installations, including barracks and equipment throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36606/13]

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Written answers

The Department and the Defence Forces, similar to all other Government Departments, must take into account the current difficult economic environment we are now operating in. The budgetary situation will continue to dictate the level of funding available for the development and maintenance of military installations and the purchase and upgrading of equipment. Decisions will be made accordingly on a strictly prioritised basis with a view to maintaining the capability of all roles assigned by Government to the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service. The Defence property portfolio is kept under review to ensure the most effective use of military resources. As I have indicated to the House previously there are no plans for further barrack closures.

A particular focus is in ensuring that modern and effective equipment is available for overseas peace support operations. In this regard, the personal equipment, which the individual soldier has at his/her disposal in Lebanon and on other overseas missions is second to none and compares very favourably with the equipment in use by other countries. Investment in new equipment and upgrading of existing equipment for the Defence Forces is provided for under various subheads of the Defence Vote relating to Defensive Equipment, Transport, Aircraft, Naval Service Ships and Stores and Communications and Information Technology Equipment.

I am advised that the provision allocated in 2013 specifically for the purchase of defensive equipment and ammunition is €26.5 million. This allows for the acquisition of a range of priority defensive equipment and munitions such as Force Protection Equipment, a new Ground Surveillance Radar system, a replacement programme for the 12.7mm Heavy Machine Gun and the continued implementation of a Rifle Enhancement Programme for the Steyr Rifle which has been in service for nearly 25 years.

I am satisfied that the level of resources and equipment available to the Defence Forces enables the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas in an efficient and effective manner.

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