Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 3 Jul 1996

Vol. 468 No. 1

Written Answers. - Reserve Forces Strength.

Robert Molloy

Ceist:

25 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Defence if he will ensure that the recommendation that the FCA/Second Line Reserve be reduced from an existing strength of 16,000, all ranks, to a strength of approximately 5,000, will not be implemented in this the 50th anniversary year of the establishment of this efficient, loyal, patriotic and disciplined force, which has given voluntary unpaid service to the State in cities, towns, villages and rural areas throughout the country. [14443/96]

Minister for Defence (Mr. Barrett)

There are no proposals to reduce the strength of the Reserve Defence Forces. As indicated in the Defence Forces Review Implementation Plan recently approved by Government, a special study on the Reserve Defence Forces will be carried out during the lifetime of the plan.

The Government fully appreciates the contribution being made by members of the FCA to the overall effectiveness of the Defence Forces. The FCA is a voluntary organisation. Because of this, all ranks possess a high level of motivation and commitment. Members of the FCA pursue full-time careers and, as a result, training must take place during evenings and weekends. FCA personnel devote a considerable amount of their spare time to the community through the medium of parttime military service. The dedication and enthusiasm of An Forsa Cosanta Áitiúil is recognised and valued in local communities throughout the country and at national level by the Government. It is my hope and my intention that the review will acknowledge and enhance that contribution.