Lisa Chambers
Ceist:1960. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the most up to date figures for the strength of the Reserve Defence Force. [26324/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraFriday, 16 September 2016
Ceisteanna (1960)
Freagraí scríofa
As of 31 July 2016, the latest date for which figures are available, the effective strength of the Reserve stood at 2,141 personnel, comprising of 2,017 Army Reservists and 124 Naval Service Reservists. Recruitment to the Reserve is ongoing.
I believe that the Reserve Defence Force is an important asset to the State. The White Paper on Defence 2015 confirms that the primary role of the Reserve is to augment the Permanent Defence Force in times of crisis and to participate in ceremonial events. The implementation of initiatives for the Reserve outlined in the White Paper will be a key motivating factor in encouraging more people to join the Reserve as well as making it more attractive for current members to stay. I value the contribution of all of its members who volunteer their time and service so willingly and I am fully committed to its ongoing and future development.