Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
152. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of vacant posts remaining to be filled at all levels in the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28362/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs of the 31 May 2024, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force stood at 7,447 personnel. The attached table provides the establishment and current strength, by Branch and rank, in addition to the variances between those figures that detail over establishment (+) and vacancies (-).
Vacancies are filled in line with promotional arrangements, as appropriate, and by recruitment.
I have fully acknowledged the current staffing challenges in the Defence Forces, and work is ongoing to counter these. A range of recruitment measures, along with financial and non-financial retention incentives which include significant progress on pay and allowances, have been implemented to address such challenges.
