Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
186. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which optimum strength in the Defence Forces is being maintained, with equal reference to the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29798/23]
View answer189. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the degree to which he remains satisfied regarding the strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps, with particular reference to ensuring the maintenance of recommended levels of strength throughout all branches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29801/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 186 and 189 together.
As at 31 May 2023, the strength of the Permanent Defence Forces was 7,764 personnel comprised of 6,305 Army personnel, 704 Air Corps personnel and 755 Naval Service personnel.
I have previously acknowledged the current staffing difficulties in the Defence Forces and, to counter these, there are a number of recruitment and retention initiatives currently under way.
I can assure the Deputy that the manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services.
My immediate focus is on stabilising the numbers of personnel in the Defence Forces and thereafter increasing strength to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
