Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
681. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Defence the strength of the Defence Forces at the end of September 2020; and the number of personnel in full-time induction training in terms of recruits, two star training cadet training or apprenticeships and therefore non-deployable. [33086/20]
View answer683. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Defence the strength of the Defence Forces at end September 2020; and the number of personnel that are in full-time induction training (details supplied) and therefore non-deployable. [33095/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 681 and 683 together.
The establishment for the Permanent Defence Force is 9,500 personnel. Personnel in training are counted as part of the 9,500 strength level.
As at 30th September 2020, the strength of the PDF was 8,529 personnel (whole time equivalents). Of that strength, 435 personnel were in full time induction training of varying durations, comprised of: 195 recruits, 81 Private 2 star, 98 Cadets and 61 Air Corp Apprentice Technicians.
Members of the PDF, when not deployed overseas, are engaged in a range of ongoing operations and training and are available for service at all times, including those in induction training, where appropriate.
