Vol. 476 No. 4
18 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Defence whether any aspects of the proposed reorganisation of the Defence Forces involve amendments to current legislation; and, if so, when this will be brought before Dáil Éireann. [7157/97]
The Defence Forces Review Implementation Plan, approved by Government on 5 March 1996, recommended the reorganisation of Defence Forces Headquarters and a revised management and control system. Implementing this recommendation involves the abolition of the existing appointments of Adjutant-General and Quartermaster-General and their replacement by two new appointments of Deputy Chief of Staff, both of whom will report to the Chief of Staff.
The implementation of this recommendation will necessitate the amendment of the Defence Act, 1954. I will bring proposals in this regard to Government in the very near future.
I take it from the Minister's reply this minimalist legislation is the only legislation required for the major changes taking place. Will the Minister indicate the progress that has been made on the implementation of these changes?
I am satisfied with the progress made so far. As the Deputy is aware, having served as Minister for Defence, these major changes cannot be made overnight, it would be unwise if they were. The overall review and implementation of the approved plan will be over a period of time. I am satisfied the Chief of Staff and his able assistants are progressing the plan at a satisfactory rate. The changes will be made as the various stages are reached. The abolition of the posts of Adjutant-General and Quartermaster-General will be immediately on the passing of the legislation by both Houses of the Oireachtas.
