Bernard Durkan
Ceist:578. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the current strength of each branch of the Defence Forces including the Army Reserves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34447/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 28 June 2022
Ceisteanna (578, 588)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:588. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the degree to which the strength of operability of all branches of the Defence Forces are regularly monitored to ensure their readiness in the event of an emergency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34457/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 578 and 588 together.
The manpower requirements of the Defence Forces continues to be monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services to ensure they maintain their operational capability.
The current strength of the Defence Forces as at 31st May 2022 is as follows:
|
Total Strength |
|
|
Army (WTE) |
6,670 |
|
Air Corps (WTE) |
728 |
|
Naval Service (WTE) |
845 |
|
Army Reserve (Effective Personnel) |
1,484 |
|
Naval Service Reserve (Effective Personnel) |
114 |
WTE - Whole Time Equivalent
The Government remains committed to returning to the agreed strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) of 9,500 and, in that context, a number of initiatives are being implemented to counter current staffing challenges that will play a role in restoring and retaining capacity.
In respect of the Reserve Defence Forces (RDF), the White Paper on Defence is quite clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the Reserve and that requirement will be addressed. While the commitment to restoring the strength of the RDF is not in doubt, the same personnel and resources are utilised for both PDF and RDF recruitment. Given the competing recruitment demands at present, PDF recruitment is, and will remain a priority. However, RDF recruitment will continue to be progressed to the greatest extent possible.
The work of the Commission on the Defence Forces included deliberation on the appropriate capabilities and staffing of both the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force. Consideration of the recommendations of the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces is ongoing. I intend to revert shortly to Government with a proposed response to those recommendations and a high-level action plan, which will set out proposed timelines and oversight arrangements for its implementation.