Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2023
263. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the degree to which the strength of the Defence Forces is being monitored, with a view to ensuring optimum levels throughout the entire structure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5487/23]
View answer264. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the progress made in increasing the strength of the Army; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5488/23]
View answer265. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the progress made in increasing the strength of the Air Corps, with particular reference to the need for increased capacity in surveillance, coastal and otherwise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5489/23]
View answer266. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the progress made in increasing the strength of the Navy, with particular reference to the need for increased capacity in surveillance, coastal and otherwise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5490/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 263, 264, 265 and 266 together.
As at 31 December 2022, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) was 7,987 personnel comprised of 6,478 Army personnel, 800 Naval Service personnel and 709 Air Corps personnel. This equates to some 84% of the current PDF establishment strength of 9,500.
My immediate focus is now on stabilising the staffing situation in the Defence Forces, and thereafter in bringing its strength to the numbers required to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. While there are a number of recruitment and retention initiatives currently underway aimed at countering ongoing staffing challenges, the Defence Forces are also developing further strategies in this regard.
Notwithstanding staffing challenges, the Naval Service continues to carry out the roles assigned by Government, including surveillance patrols to protect specific fisheries and security operations with aerial assistance in patrolling the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone provided by the Air Corps Maritime Patrol Squadron.
The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. Furthermore, the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of threats and emergencies under constant review. I am satisfied that the Defence Forces will continue to respond in an effective and timely manner to such events were they to occur in the State.
