Vol. 452 No. 5
126 Mr. S. Brennan asked the Minister for Defence the views, if any, he has on the desirability of a voluntary early retirement scheme for members of the Defence Forces; his further views on whether such a scheme would help reduce the age profile; the approximate timescale for such a scheme; whether it would be part of the initial phase of any agreed reform package; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8218/95]
As the House is aware, the Efficiency Audit Group has completed a review of the Defence Forces. Arising from this review, it is envisaged that an integrated programme of reform will be drawn up to address a number of deficiencies which have been identified in the military organisation and that this will include a voluntary early retirement scheme. The Government have yet to take decisions concerning the report of the Efficiency Audit Group. Accordingly, it would be premature to speculate about the possible terms of any voluntary early retirement package that may be introduced.
