Vol. 526 No. 1
169 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Defence the plans he has to publish a White Paper on defence; if he intends to bring about a reduction in numbers serving in the forces; the proposals there are to close army barracks; if there are any other changes proposed for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26025/00]
The White Paper on Defence was published in February 2000 and implementation is moving ahead quickly and positively.
The Chief of Staff is currently preparing a plan to restructure the PDF in accordance with the Government's decision on overall numbers which requires a reduction of 1,000 personnel. The plan will be based also on the maintenance of existing barracks.
My intention is to have the plan finalised and implemented by end-2001, in accordance with the Government decision.
