Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 November 2013
131. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the budget for his Department in respect of 2014 with particular reference to maintaining strength, training and equipment standards in line with international best practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47394/13]
View answer133. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which he has been in a position to maintain the strength of the Naval Service, with particular reference to numerical strength and the updating of equipment and replacement of vessels in view of the importance of the pivotal role of the Naval Service in emergencies and coastal surveillance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47396/13]
View answer134. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which adequate resources remain available to the Air Corps to ensure adequate ongoing training and the updating of equipment, including aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47397/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 131, 133 and 134 together.
I am satisified that the level of resources available to the Defence Forces, including, training, equipment and up to date technology, enables the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas.
The acquisition of new equipment for the Defence Forces remains a focus for me as Minister for Defence and is a matter that is kept under constant review. However, it is imperative that 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, in the context of the current difficult economic situation, will continue to dictate the level of funding available for new equipment, training and upgrades. 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 Defence Forces. The Defence Forces has a robust and comprehensive training system which incorporates a wide variety of modern training methods.
Training standards in the Defence Forces are constantly benchmarked against best international practice. Participation in ongoing overseas operations also necessitates multi lateral-training and assessment. This facilitates ongoing review of Defence Forces training methods and standards within an international military context. I am advised that Defence Forces personnel continue to have the most modern and effective range of equipment and technology available for their training and day-to-day roles.
I am satisfied that Naval Service training techniques and technologies are up to date in all respects, with the most up to date equipment, including modern technology and IT equipment available to Naval Service personnel. Preparations for the construction of two new offshore Patrol Vessels are advancing with the first ship due for delivery in early 2014. These modern new vessels, combined with a continuous process of refurbishment and repair on the other vessels in the fleet, will ensure the Naval Service continues to meet the required operational capability. A considerable training effort is also involved with the new ships programme to allow for a smooth entry of the first ship into operational service in 2014 and the second ship in 2015.
The Air Corps keeps abreast of all developments in modern aviation. It will continue to conduct its training in accordance with industry best practices and to the highest standards, referencing European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, using the most modern methods and equipment available.
The budgetary situation, in the context of the current difficult economic situation, will continue to dictate the level of funding available for new equipment, training and upgrades. 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 Defence Forces.
