Sir, – Your correspondent (Capt Donal Buckley, December 8th) has fundamentally misunderstood the decisions taken regarding the Defence Forces as part of Budget 2012.
The fact that the Permanent Defence Force is to be maintained at a strength of 9,500 is a recognition by Government of the significant modernisation that has occurred over recent years and the Government’s intent that the Permanent Defence Force remains capable of fulfilling all roles assigned.
The level of resourcing available to Government over the coming years will present challenges and every part of the public service will have to continue to deliver greater efficiency. The decision to reduce the number of Army brigades from three to two is to ensure that, within the strength level of 9,500, the number of “front line” troops is maximised. This will be achieved by ensuring that military personnel are released from administrative and support functions and will prioritise operational requirements.
The recently announced barrack closures will also increase the number of military personnel in the front line. Confirmation that no further barracks closures are planned also ends any uncertainty over this issue. Overall, the effect of the Government’s decisions will be the exact opposite to the writer’s assertion that there will be a reduction in the number of operational troops.
I would also like to correct the mistaken assertion that the decision to re-organise was made without consultation or reference to the Chief of Staff. The Chief of Staff has already confirmed elsewhere that the Minister discussed the matter with him several weeks ago. – Yours, etc,