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Defence Forces Reserve

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 March 2021

Wednesday, 24 March 2021

Questions (790)

John Brady

Question:

790. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence the optimum strength level of the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14751/21]

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Written answers

The Reserve Defence Force (RDF) is comprised of the Army Reserve (AR), the Naval Service Reserve (NSR) and the First Line Reserve (FLR).

Defence Force Regulation CS4 determines the regulatory establishment limits for the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) and the RDF. The establishment figure for the RDF as provided in this Regulation, is 4,069 personnel comprising 3,869 for the Army Reserve (AR), and 200 for the Naval Service Reserve. (NSR). There is no set establishment for the FLR.

A key ongoing challenge for the RDF is to recruit and retain personnel and the Government remains committed to improving the strength level of the RDF.

This commitment is exemplified by the rolling recruitment model for the RDF being implemented this year which is similar to the model currently used for the PDF General Service recruitment, as well as other outreach initiatives.

Paid training rates for members of the RDF have now been restored, having previously been reduced as part of cost savings measures during the economic downturn. In addition, the Government has approved proposed amendments to the Defence (amendment) Bill 2020, which will update Defence legislation relating to utilisation of the RDF.

As part of its terms of reference, the Commission on the Defence Forces will also examine the role and contribution of the RDF, including its legislation; the regulations governing the RDF; the development of the First Line Reserve; and the utilisation of the RDF in support of the PDF and on overseas missions. The Commission is due to report at the end of the year.

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