Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 June 2016
696. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the scarcity of Reserve Defence Force, RDF, training units in rural areas, resulting in a lack of opportunity for persons in rural Ireland who wish to participate in Reserve Defence Force activities; his views on whether this is negatively affecting recruitment in the Reserve Defence Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14976/16]
View answerThe White Paper on Defence 2015 confirmed that the primary role of the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) is to augment the PDF in crisis situations. It is also to contribute to State ceremonial events.
In terms of RDF training units in rural areas, as the Deputy may be aware, the re-organisation of the RDF was a key element of the response to the findings of the Value for Money Review of the RDF published in late 2012. The central recommendation provided for retention of the RDF with 4,000 personnel spread countrywide to be based in barracks and in 16 other locations. As part of the subsequent re-organisation, all RDF units were disestablished and amalgamated with PDF units. The retention of all previous locations was not a viable or sustainable option. The re-organisation offered significant advantages in terms of training and development of RDF personnel with PDF units having Reserve components rather than the previous parallel Reserve organisation structure. Reserve units are supported by their parent PDF unit and the 16 units outside of PDF installations are supported by dedicated full time PDF personnel. At the time of the re-organisation, every effort was made to minimise the requirement for personnel to relocate and to facilitate members in their preferred or local areas.
The RDF remains significantly under-strength and the ongoing challenge is to recruit and train sufficient personnel to meet the establishment figure. This challenge affects all elements of the RDF and is not confined to rural areas. Recruitment to the RDF is ongoing. While recruitment remains a key challenge, the retention of members is also a key requirement in order to maintain strength levels. The implementation of measures set out in the White Paper 2015 will provide opportunities for certain members of the RDF to undertake duties. I am of the view that this, and other initiatives outlined in the White Paper will be a key motivating factor in encouraging more people to join the RDF as well as making it more attractive for current members to stay.
