Niamh Smyth
Ceist:97. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Defence the way that it is proposed to strengthen the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34155/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 28 June 2022
Ceisteanna (97)
Freagraí scríofa
I can confirm that the Government remains committed to the advancement of the Reserve Defence Force (RDF). The White Paper on Defence is quite clear that there is a continued requirement to retain, develop and strengthen the Reserve and that requirement will be addressed.
I am very cognisant of the fact that the RDF strength level remains lower than the Establishment figure. However, I am aware of the many initiatives in place to recruit individuals to the Reserve. Supports currently provided to maximise RDF recruitment include use of social media, promotion through the DF Press Office, outreach activities by RDF members, and the use of Permanent Defence Force (PDF) exit interviews which contain information on applying to the RDF. In addition, I'm advised that the military authorities have developed a number of measures to streamline the recruitment and induction process for the RDF which, it is hoped, will yield positive results.
I should mention that the ability to conduct RDF inductions during 2021 was severely impacted by the COVID-19 public health pandemic. Nevertheless, 41 new members were inducted during 2021. A recruitment drive for the RDF was launched this year on 21 March 2022, which was advertised across a number of media channels. Recruit Liaison Officers across the RDF have been conducting local recruitment to attract applicants for this campaign. Eligible applicants are undergoing recruitment processing following which, on completion of all processing and assessments, successful applicants are inducted into the RDF for recruit training. 37 additional new members have been inducted into the Reserve so far this year, with further induction training planned.
While the commitment to restoring the strength of the RDF is not in doubt, given the competing recruitment demands at present, PDF recruitment is and should remain a priority. I would add that the same personnel and resources are utilised for both PDF and RDF recruitment. Nonetheless, RDF recruitment will continue to be progressed to the greatest extent possible.
The Deputy will be aware of the publication earlier this year of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces containing many detailed recommendations, including on the future structure and role of the RDF.
The process to consider the full set of recommendations in the Report in consultation with Ministerial colleagues and stakeholders is almost completed and I intend, before the Summer recess, to bring to Government, significant proposals encompassed in a high-level action plan. It would be inappropriate therefore, for me to pre-empt this deliberative process in advance of the Government's consideration.