John Brady
Ceist:913. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence the current strength of the Reserve Defence Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29662/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 14 June 2022
Ceisteanna (913)
Freagraí scríofa
The Reserve Defence Force (RDF) is comprised of the First Line Reserve, the Army Reserve (AR) and the Naval Service Reserve (NSR). The Government remains absolutely committed to the advancement of the RDF. The White Paper on Defence is quite clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the Reserve and the Government remains fully committed to this.
The strength of the Reserve Defence Force, as of 30 April 2022, is set out below:
|
Service |
Total Effective Personnel |
|
Army Reserve |
1371 |
|
Naval Reserve |
113 |
|
First Line Reserve |
272 |
The Deputy will be aware that the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, published last February, contains many detailed recommendations, including on the future structure and role of the RDF.
There is a process underway to consider these recommendations in consultation with Ministerial colleagues and stakeholders. The intent is to revert to Government with a proposed response and a high-level action plan in advance of the summer recess. It would be inappropriate therefore, for me to pre-empt this deliberative process in advance of the Government's consideration.