Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 May 2022
220. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence when the numerical strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps will be brought up to recommended levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24053/22]
View answer222. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the degree to which it is intended to use the recent review of the Defence Forces as a template to bring strength and capability of the Air Corps up to an acceptable level with a view to ensuring the level of competence required for neutral country if attacked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24055/22]
View answer223. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence when it is expected to bring the strength of the Defence Forces up to the recommended level; if the upgrading of training and facilities are likely to be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24056/22]
View answer230. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence when it is expected that the strength of the Defence Forces will meet the levels recommended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24063/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 220, 222, 223 and 230 together.
As the Deputy is aware the Permanent Defence Force is currently under strength by just over 1000 personnel.
The report of the Commission on the Defence Forces has made it clear that the level of ambition (LOA) for the Defence Forces must be elevated beyond that at which it is operating at the moment.
The report outlines three levels of ambition. LOA 1 is essentially proceeding as we are at present and trying to move back to a full establishment figure of 9,500. The Commission has concluded that this would leave the Defence Forces unable to mount a credible defence of the State. LOA 2 would address specific priority gaps to improve on-island and overseas capabilities. LOA 3, would bring Ireland in line with other small neutral European countries in terms of spend. I am on the record as saying that LOA 2 is the minimum that we should aim for. This level of ambition will require an additional 2000 personnel beyond the establishment figure of 9,500 and an increase in the defence budget of some 50%. The Defence Forces are responsible for recruitment and I have requested them to examine their recruitment practices and structures to facilitate this increase in numbers.
This Commission report also includes, inter alia, consideration of issues relating to training, facilities, recruitment and retention and, following relevant consultation, I will revert to Government with a proposed response to the Commission's recommendations and a high-level action plan, which will set out proposed timelines and oversight arrangements for its implementation.
In the interim, my focus remains on restoring all branches of the Defence Forces to the current agreed strength and in that context, there are a number of initiatives which are presently being implemented to counter ongoing staffing challenges.
