The military authorities advise that the strength of the Defence Forces on 30 June 1999, the latest date for which figures have been compiled, was 11,139.
It has not been possible in the time available, to extract details from the available statistics of the number of personnel, in all ranks, who have resigned or retired from the Defence Forces other than on age grounds since 1 January, 1999. These figures are being compiled and I will write to the Deputy with this information as soon as possible. In line with the policy of continuous recruitment introduced by this Government, some 375 general service recruits have been enlisted so far this year and a further 85 general service recruits are expected to be enlisted over the next few weeks. Some 58 cadets and 32 apprentices have also been enlisted this year.
Furthermore, interviews in connection with a further planned intake of general service recruits this year are currently taking place.