Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 June 2018
49. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps continue to have available to them the equipment, training and personnel to meet all eventualities in which they might be called upon in emergency or other situations; if adequate updating, upgrading and upskilling takes place with regularity in all cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27711/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles as assigned by Government both at home and overseas.
The Government is committed to ensuring the upgrade of Defence Forces equipment and capability, within the financial envelope available. As part of budgetary negotiations in 2017, additional capital funding was allocated bringing the capital envelope up to €416m over the 2018-2021 timeframe. This will allow for significant investment in equipment and infrastructure over the coming years as identified and prioritised in the White Paper on Defence. It emphasises the importance attached by this Government to ensuring that the Defence Forces have the capability necessary to deliver all the roles assigned by Government.
In relation to the Army, there is ongoing investment in force protection, transport, communications and information technology, weapons and ammunition. A significant investment is being made in the Army’s fleet of MOWAG Armoured Personnel Carriers. A mid-life upgrade programme is underway at a cost of €55m plus VAT which will extend the utility of the fleet and provide greater levels of protection, mobility and firepower. The first nine upgraded vehicles were recently delivered. Additionally, twenty four (24) 4 x 4 Armoured Utility Vehicles have been acquired and it is planned to take delivery later this year of new armoured logistic vehicles. These measures will also enhance force protection.
In relation to the Air Corps, the Government is currently investing over €32m plus VAT in three fixed wing utility aircraft suitably equipped for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) with delivery to commence in 2019. A tender competition is also in progress to replace the CASA Maritime Patrol aircraft.
Within the Naval Service, examples of the approach include the acquisition of new modern ships under the ship replacement programme. Three Offshore Patrol Vessels have been delivered since 2014 and a fourth ship, to be named, LÉ George Bernard Shaw, is due to be delivered later this year, reflecting an investment of over €250m. While a project has commenced to acquire a new multi role vessel to replace the flagship LÉ Eithne.
The examples given, whilst not exhaustive, demonstrate my commitment to update and upgrade the Defence Forces equipment and capabilities. In this regard, the primary function of training and education of personnel in the Defence Forces is to develop and maintain the military capabilities necessary to fulfil the roles laid down by Government. There is an ongoing development of capabilities and skills of personnel in the Defence Forces with a planned programme of training of personnel which is underpinned by an analysis of training needed to meet operational output requirements and capability development needs. A long term strategy has been adopted with current planning horizons out to 2021. Considerable training expertise exists within the Defence Forces and this expertise is continually benchmarked against best international practice. Where the capability exists, highly trained and knowledgeable training instructors deliver relevant training in-house. Where appropriate, Defence Forces personnel are also sent on relevant external courses, both within Ireland and internationally.
I am satisfied that the Defence Forces have the necessary resources available to them, including a modern and effective range of equipment and training which is line with best international standards in order to fulfil all roles assigned to them by Government. This includes the provision of relevant assistance in response to emergency or other situations that may arise.
