Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 May 2022
225. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which training of the Army Reserves or part-time Defence Forces continues to be brought up-to-date on par with international standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24058/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe primary function of training and education in both the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) and the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) is to develop and maintain capabilities necessary to enable personnel to fulfil the roles laid down by Government. The principal role of the Reserve is to augment the PDF in crisis situations. As such, the RDF undertakes training in preparation to assist the PDF when required.
The scheduling of training in the Defence Forces, including the Reserve, is underpinned by an analysis of training needed to meet operational output requirements and capability development needs. Members of the Army Reserve (AR) and Naval Service Reserve (NSR) are volunteers who undertake training in their spare time. In order to facilitate the voluntary nature of Reserve Service and to maximise attendance of Reserve personnel, training continues to be organised both in and out of normal working hours, at weekends and during academic and traditional holiday periods.
The current budget for the RDF is €2.150m, of which €2.068m is allocated to paid training, which provides for seven days annual paid training for each effective member of the AR and NSR. The budget also provides for fourteen days paid training for all additional personnel recruited, along with career and specialist courses for selected members of the Reserve in line with Reserve priorities. This provision is sufficient having regard to the existing strength of the RDF and the voluntary nature of Reserve training.
RDF recruits undergo varied training in areas such as combat first aid, military law and tactical training. A major part of Recruit training is in the use of the Steyr 5.56mm Assault Rifle. After recruit training is complete, personnel are then trained in the operation of basic radio communications, map reading, Nuclear, Biological & Chemical warfare defence and the Light Machine Gun. Each Corps also carries out specialist training in its particular field. For example, the Infantry and Cavalry Corps train in weapons and tactics and the Corps of Engineers train in engineering tasks, such as demolition, construction and mine warfare.
I am satisfied that members of the AR and NSR are afforded the opportunity to avail of training and update their skills on an ongoing basis and that the extensive and professional training provided to the Reserve is a major motivating factor.
Finally, the Deputy will be aware that the recently published Commission on the Defence Forces contained a number of recommendations on the role and structure of the Reserve Defence Forces. These, in line with the totality of the recommendations are currently under deliberation.
