Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 April 2011
322 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence when the value for money review of the Reserve Defence Forces will be completed; when he expects to publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6897/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Reserve Defence Force was selected for review as part of the 2009-2011 phase of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review initiative and this review commenced in February 2010. A Steering Committee comprising representatives from the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Finance is overseeing the Review. In accordance with revised guidelines for the conduct of Value for Money Reviews, an independent chair was appointed to the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee has met on seven occasions since the review commenced. The Steering Committee is supported by a civil/military working group.
The Steering Committee and the Working Group have engaged in an extensive programme of consultation and have sought additional detailed information relating to Reserve activity. The final elements of these information requirements are currently being compiled and will then be analysed. This information is necessary in order to ensure a comprehensive and balanced picture of Reserve activity.
It is planned to hold a meeting of the Steering Committee in the coming weeks, when progress to date will be considered. The Steering Committee will also review the anticipated timeframe for completion of the Review.
