Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2023
220. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the current strength of each branch of the Defence Forces, including the Army Reserves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23253/23]
View answerThe current strength of the Defence Forces as at 31 March 2023 is as follows:
|
Total Strength |
|
|
Army (WTE) |
6,333 |
|
Air Corps (WTE) |
716 |
|
Naval Service (WTE) |
758 |
|
Army Reserve (Effective Personnel) |
1,496 |
|
Naval Service Reserve (Effective Personnel) |
102 |
WTE - Whole Time Equivalent
Ongoing staffing challenges in the Defence Forces have been acknowledged. In that regard, my immediate focus is now on stabilising the staffing situation in the Defence Forces and thereafter in bringing the strength to the numbers required to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
In respect of the Reserve Defence Forces (RDF), the White Paper on Defence is quite clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the Reserve and that requirement will be addressed. While the commitment to restoring the strength of the RDF is not in doubt, the same personnel and resources are utilised for both PDF and RDF recruitment. Given the competing recruitment demands at present, PDF recruitment is, and will remain a priority. However, RDF recruitment will continue to be progressed to the greatest extent possible.
