Michael Bell
Ceist:148 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has to publish a White Paper on the future of the Defence Forces; if so, when it will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13852/95]
Written Answers. - White Paper on Defence Forces.
Following consideration of the report of the Efficiency Audit Group (EAG) on its review of the Defence Forces, the Government accepted in principle the conclusions of the group that there was a need for major reform in the structure and organisation of the Defence Forces. The Government decided to establish an Implementation Group to draw up a detailed and fully costed plan to give effect to the general thrust of the EAG's report. This plan will be the first stage of a phased programme of implementation of the EAG's broad recommendations and its objective will be the reorganisation of the Defence Forces based on a three brigade structure, with a manpower level of around 11,500.
The Government has published a document based on the EAG recommendations which summarises its response to these reports. Based on the Government's decision, the Implementation Group will be reporting later this year and when the Government has considered the proposed implementation plan, it will then be decided how best to proceed. The House will be kept fully informed of developments.