Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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138. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of personnel, by rank, currently in the Defence Forces Medical Corps; and if he will provide the corresponding figures as of 1 April 2021, in tabular form. [13341/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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It has not been possible to provide the required information within the timeframe available. I shall provide the information to the Deputy once it becomes available

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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139. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps continues to receive specialist training to deal with emergencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13440/24]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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145. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Defence Forces are adequately trained and available to deal with emergency situations that may arise either by way of natural disaster or terrorist threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13446/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 145 together.

My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government. At National level, representation on the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency.

In accordance with the Framework for Major Emergency Management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies such as severe weather events or terrorist attacks rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Authority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive. The Defence Forces provides assistance within means to the appropriate Lead Department or Principal Response Agency in the event of a natural disaster or an emergency situation in its Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) and Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) roles.

In respect of security threats, responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána. There is on-going and close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including ATCP deployments and includes military training activities which are specifically designed to respond to possible security emergencies.

Following the publication of the Commission on the Defence Forces Report in February 2022, implementation of the Commission's recommendations will result in significant increased investment in capability development over the coming years and is a demonstration of the Government’s strong commitment to support the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern, agile military force, capable of responding to increasingly complex security challenges.

I am committed to ensuring that the personnel of the Defence Forces continue to be equipped and trained to best international standards and I can confirm that the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of threats and emergencies under constant review.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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140. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the current strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps reserves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13441/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Reserve Defence Force comprises the Army Reserve (AR), Naval Service Reserve (NSR) and the First Line Reserve (FLR).

The RDF is comprised of the First Line Reserve (FLR), the Army Reserve and the Naval Service Reserve The FLR consists of former trained members of the PDF who are available at short notice to supplement the PDF in times of crisis.

The current strength of the Reserve Defence Force as of 31 January 2024 is as follows:

The strategic objective for the RDF is the development of a Reserve Force that can seamlessly train, operate and deploy on a voluntary basis, with the Permanent Defence Force, both on-island and overseas. This is an underlying message in the Report from the Commission on the Defence Forces.

The structure and strength of the RDF is a key focus of the Defence Force's Office of Reserve Affairs (ORA) which was established in line with a recommendation from the Commission’s Report and its immediate priorities are the development of a Regeneration Plan, in addition to focusing on general recruitment into the RDF.

While there is not currently an Air Corps Reserve, in terms of the strength and structure of the RDF, one of the key recommendations in the Report from the Commission on the Defence Forces, which will be considered in the context of ongoing work on the future strength of the RDF, is to increase the future RDF establishment strength to include at a minimum, the establishment of an Air Force Reserve of 200, and increasing the Navy Reserve to 400.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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141. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his recruitment plans for 2024; the extent to which he plans to increase the strength of the Defence Forces in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13442/24]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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146. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of women applying for and enlisting in the Defence Forces, with equal respect to the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13447/24]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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149. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the numbers enlisted in the Permanent Defence Forces at present; the proposals, if any, to have substantial recruitment and the timescale for increasing personnel in the Army; Air Corps and Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13501/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 141, 146 and 149 together.

The strength of the PDF, as at 31 January 2024 the latest date for which such figures are available, stood at 7,504 personnel, 6,281 of which were enlisted.

I have acknowledged the current staffing difficulties previously and I have instructed the military authorities that additional enlisted personnel and Cadets be recruited in 2024 beyond the initial projected induction figure proposed. An allocation of €1.23 billion for the Defence Sector in Budget 2024, which includes a provision for the recruitment and training of at least a net additional 400 enlisted personnel in 2024, will assist in this regard.

There are currently a number of recruitment and retention initiatives underway to counter staffing difficulties and increase capacity. An example includes the recent increase in the maximum retirement age for PDF personnel to 60 years. This retention measure also facilitates an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 years for General Service Recruits, Cadets and certain specialists with effect from 29 March 2024.

In 2023 there were 1,117 female applications to the Permanent Defence Force consisting of 695 Army, 257 Air Corps and 165 Naval Service. There were 37 female inductions in 2023 consisting of 24 Army, 5 Air Corps and 8 Naval Service. In 2024 as of the 29th February there were 193 female applications consisting of 107 Army, 52 Air Corps and 34 Naval Service. 2024 inductions are scheduled to begin shortly.

Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment within the general recruitment framework and the High Level Action Plan agreed by Government on the Commission on the Defence Forces contains a range of recommendations designed to assist in increasing female participation in the Defence Forces. The Government remains committed to increasing female participation rates at all levels of the Defence Forces in order to increase capability and to better reflect the society from which the Defence Forces are drawn and serve.

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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142. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which retirements and resignations in the Defence Forces have been replaced with a view to ensuring an adequate management structure throughout; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13443/24]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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144. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of current vacant promotional positions waiting to be filled throughout the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13445/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 144 together.

The number of personnel inducted and departing varies from year to year. 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.

As at 31 January 2024, the latest date for which such figures are available, there were 1,112 positions. that could be filled in line with promotional arrangements and, in certain cases, by Direct Entry recruitment.

I have previously acknowledged there are staffing challenges in the Defence Forces and the problem is most acute in the enlisted ranks, as Officer ranks are close to establishment strength. I have instructed the military authorities that additional enlisted personnel and Cadets be recruited in 2024. An allocation of €1.23 billion for the Defence Sector in Budget 2024, which includes a provision for the recruitment and training of at least a net additional 400 enlisted personnel in 2024, will assist in this regard.

There are currently a number of recruitment and retention initiatives underway to increase capacity. An example includes the recent increase in the maximum retirement age for PDF personnel to 60 years. This retention measure also facilitates an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 years for General Service Recruits, Cadets and certain specialists with effect from 29 March 2024.

My immediate focus remains on stabilising the numbers of personnel, and to facilitate capacity for further increase

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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143. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which participation by the Defence Forces in international missions is envisaged in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13444/24]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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147. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of military personnel serving at various locations overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13448/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 147 together.

As of 6 March 2024, Ireland is contributing 553 personnel to 8 different missions throughout the world` and reflects the Government's continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 345 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 130 personnel. Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various United Nations and OSCE missions and personnel to staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO/PfP and OSCE headquarters.

Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations, in the maintenance of international peace and security, is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

There are currently no plans to increase our commitment to UN peacekeeping in terms of participation in further missions. There Irish Defence Forces will finish as planned in the UNDOF mission in April this year after ten years of participation in this operation.

With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. The changing nature of demands and potential future mission profiles need to be considered in the context of assets and capabilities which can be made available by the Defence Forces for overseas deployment, given existing operational demands at home and overseas.

Full details of all personnel currently serving in missions overseas are listed below.

MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS

As of 06 March 2024

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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148. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the budget available to his Department remains sufficient to meet requirements in the course of 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13449/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The 2024 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) provides an allocation of €1.25 billion in Defence Group funding, an increase of €40 million over 2023. The Defence Vote Group includes the Defence and Army Pensions Votes. The allocations for 2024 are €933 million for the Defence Vote and €317 million for the Army Pensions Vote. This significant level of funding will further enable progress on the transformation of the Defence Forces in line with the obje.ctives and timeframes outlined in the Defence Strategic Framework, published last September.

The increased current expenditure allocation of €757 million on the Defence Vote will not only address existing spending pressures across many operational areas, but will also include targeted funding for a number of key recommendations arising from the CODF and the IRG, such as:

• An increased Defence Forces Medical Healthcare allocation to cover the full year costs of extended healthcare to all Defence Forces personnel;
• A significant provision specifically to meet the 2024 costs of the Tribunal of Inquiry arising from the IRG Report;
• A significant increase in the advertising allocation to support an enhanced Defence Forces recruitment effort throughout 2024;
• An increased Civilian Support allocation to facilitate further progression of civilian recruitment and to also allow for an increased spend on the essential engagement of external expertise and services.

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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150. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the progress to date in implementing the Report of the Commission on Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13502/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.

The Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, and its report was published on the 9th of February 2022. There were 69 main recommendations and with sub recommendations there were 130 recommendations in total. The Commission undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covered high-level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.

Given the significant recommendations contained in the Report, detailed consideration of these recommendations was undertaken over a period of 5 months by the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces. Following this engagement, a High Level Action Plan (HLAP) and a Memo for Government were brought to Government and approved on July 12th 2022. This involved the approval of a move to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission on the Defence Forces. The move to LOA2 is due to be complete by 2028. This will result in the Defence budget rising from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion, in 2022 prices, by 2028, the largest increase in Defence funding in the history of the State. This will allow for the required substantial transformation and investment in recruitment and equipment that were identified by the Commission.

The Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, was published on the 21st of November last. This plan sets out an ambitious programme of work to move to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA 2) by 2028 and the significant and fundamental change for the Defence Forces that will be delivered across the Commission’s recommendations which span:

• Strategic HR and Cultural Change;
• New Command and Control and Joint Structures to be established;
• Services to be reformed and restructured;
• Reserve Defence Force to be revitalised; and
• Joint Capability Development to be implemented

• self-worth is actively promoted,
• mutual respect becomes a dominant feature,
• all members are treated with dignity,
• in an organisation that continuously evolves to deliver positive change.

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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151. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the programme of improvement works that will be undertaken this year at Army barracks throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13503/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out a programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027. The Programme reflects the complex environment in which the Defence Forces operate and the corresponding need for appropriate infrastructure to provide for accommodation and training of personnel, as well as maintenance and storage of equipment for land, sea and airborne operational requirements.

The Deputy may wish to note that there are currently over €147m worth of IDP projects underway at different stages of development, from design planning and construction to substantial completion. Significant projects include:

• Upgrade and refurbishment of three buildings at McKee Barracks (Printing Press Block F office block and former Chief of Staff house for conversion to a medical facility
• Casement Aerodrome Military Medical Facility
• Upgrade of two buildings (Block 4 Accommodation and Block 9 Office Block at the Naval Base, Haulbowline
• Upgrade of former USAC Accommodation Block, Galway
• New CIS Workshop Facility, Defence Forces Training Centre
• A New Accommodation Block and Refurbishment of Block 1 at Collins Barracks
• Aikens Barracks Dining Hall
• Stephen’s Barracks Block C accommodation
• ARW New HQ Building
• Various projects to develop the Joint Induction Training Centre in Gormanston Camp
• Gymnasium works at Finner Camp, Casement Aerodrome, Haulbowline Naval Base and Renmore Barracks
• Coolmoney Camp New Vehicle Garaging Facility
• DFTC Garaging Facility
• Casement Aerodrome - Hangar 3 Upgrade and New Doors

Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
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152. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of the Government's plan to bring forward legislation to remove the Triple Lock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13559/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The so-called Triple Lock mechanism sets out the conditions for the deployment of Defence Forces' personnel for peacekeeping operations overseas. These include that the operation must be mandated by the UN, (either by the Security Council or General Assembly), approved by the Government and it must be approved by way of resolution of Dáil Éireann, where the size of the Defence Force contribution is more than 12 personnel.

Last year’s Consultative Forum on International Security Policy featured a well-informed discussion on the issue of UN peacekeeping and the Triple Lock, which was reflected in the Chair’s report. As I have set out in the Dáil, we clearly need a new process to replace the current system which effectively allows UN Security Council members to bind Ireland’s hands in its international engagement. Arising from this, I have instructed officials in my Department to prepare legislative proposals without delay that would govern future overseas deployments of our Defence Forces. Work on the preparation of those legislative proposals is advancing, with a view to proposals being brought to Government shortly. It is important that I emphasise, however, that any legislative proposals will remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.

As the Deputy will be aware, the General Scheme of any Bill will be brought for pre-legislative scrutiny consideration by the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence to determine if pre-legislative scrutiny is required. Any proposals agreed by Government will then have to be presented to, debated and approved by the Dáil and Seanad, thus providing the Oireachtas with ample opportunity to scrutinise any such proposals.

Any modification to the Triple Lock will continue to require Government and Dáil approval, where appropriate, for the dispatch of Defence Forces’ personnel to take part in peacekeeping and similar missions and will do nothing to change Ireland’s traditional position of military neutrality, which is characterised by Ireland's non-participation in any military alliance.