Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 February 2019
46. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of personnel serving in the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service on 31 December 2017 and 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6078/19]
View answerI am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength (Whole Time Equivalent) of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF), as on 31st December 2017 and 31st December 2018, were as set out below: -
|
Army |
Air Corps |
Naval Service |
Total |
|
|
31/12/2017 |
7,386 |
734 |
1,053 |
9,173 |
|
31/12/2018 |
7,243 |
725 |
989 |
8,957 |
The Government is committed to retaining a Permanent Defence Force with a strength of 9,500 personnel. Recruitment plans for 2019 will seek to replace personnel who depart the PDF and increase the strength of the PDF by year end.
