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Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 March 2022

Thursday, 10 March 2022

Ceisteanna (264)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

264. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if a new level of strength of the Defence Forces might be examined with a view to ensuring optimal efficacy in the event of being called upon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13774/22]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Programme for Government committed to establishing a Commission on the Defence Forces to undertake a comprehensive review of the Defence Forces. The Commission's terms of reference included the consideration of appropriate capabilities, structures and staffing for the Army, the Air Corps, Naval Service and the Reserve Defence Force.

The Commission was established by Government decision in December 2020 which also agreed its terms of reference and membership. The report was published on the 9th February 2022. 

The Commission undertook a significant body of work encompassing their wide-ranging terms of reference.  The report contains 69 main recommendations and together with sub recommendations, there are 130 recommendations.   

The report proposes significant changes for the Defence Forces, including to Defence Forces culture, high-level command and control structures, and for the level of Defence provision in Ireland.  Clearly, there are matters that will require careful consideration and in some critical aspects inter-departmental discussion and agreement. This includes the level of resourcing that may be allocated to Defence, legislative implications and the governance framework that will be required to underpin any changes the Government approve on foot of the Commission's report. 

I will also be seeking the views of my Department and the Defence Forces.  The Defence Forces Representative Associations will be consulted on all matters that fall within the scope of representation, relating to the implementation of any approved plan.  I will also engage with key stakeholders and the Oireachtas, and I welcome the Dáil statement on the report which took place on the 16th February.  I firmly believe that this is an opportunity to have a mature debate around the type of defence capabilities that we require and I am very much open to such a discussion. Current events are highlighting the importance of such a debate.

The intent is that following relevant consultation, and before the summer recess, I will to revert to Government with a proposed response to the Commission's recommendations and a high-level action plan. This high level plan will set out proposed timelines and oversight arrangements for its implementation.

It would be inappropriate for me to engage in speculative discussion regarding the outcome of an ongoing deliberative process, prior to completion of that process and Government approval of any proposed plan of action.

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