Defence Forces Reserve Strength

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 April 2013

Tuesday, 30 April 2013

Ceisteanna (455, 456)

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

455. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Defence the effective strength of the Reserve Defence Force by rank and brigade following the reassignment process compared to the total preceding the process; the number of reservists by rank per brigade who submitted a form for reassignment and the action taken in respect of those who did not; the number and ranks of those per brigade who opted to be discharged or resign in the case of officers and the number of vacancies by rank in each unit by brigade. [20152/13]

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

456. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Defence having regard to the VFM comment on maintaining effective strength, the number by rank and brigade of Reserve Defence Force officers due to retire on age grounds this year who were reassigned into unit appointments and having regard to the inability of the Permanent Defence Force to successfully conclude the last promotion competition run for RDF officers, if he is satisfied that the VFM criteria to maintain effective strength can be met by the relevant PDF unit commanders . [20153/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 456 together.

While the re-assignment process being put in place for the Reserve Defence Force following publication of the Value For Money (VFM) Review is at an advanced stage of implementation, it is not yet fully complete. Re-assignment offers have been made to individual members. However, members have the right to appeal these offers and I understand that a number of individuals have done so. In this context the Deputy will appreciate it is not possible for me to provide accurate data in respect of the statistical information he has requested at this time. I can assure the Deputy that, once the re-assignment process is complete, I will provide the information directly to him.