Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 February 2026
216. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether her Department has set formal annual retention targets for the Permanent Defence Forces; if so, the specific percentage attrition ceiling or numerical retention target set for each service; the key performance indicators used to measure retention; and the most recent performance against each of those indicators [13750/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraStabilising the numbers of Defence Force personnel and facilitating the capacity for further increases is a particular focus of mine since my appointment as Minister for Defence.
As the Deputy will be aware, there are multiple factors that influence retention levels and this is broadly experienced across all militaries internationally. That said, I am pleased to say the extensive modernisation of the Defence Forces is having a measurable impact on stabilisation efforts.
While The Defence Forces do not operate a formal annual retention target expressed as a fixed percentage, data indicates that turnover rates have reduced over the last two years with a turnover rate of approximately 7.6% in 2025. This is a very positive turnover rate when compared with militaries internationally where annual attrition rates of 8 to 12 per cent are typical.
An annual outflow of personal in the Defence Forces is expected due to statutory retirement ages, completion of contracted service, medical discharges, and other natural retirements. The objective is not to eliminate turnover, but to keep attrition as low as reasonably practicable while maintaining operational capability.
To further mitigate attrition and strengthen workforce stability, several measures are being implemented. The Strategic Workforce Plan is in development and will provide a structured pathway to achieving and sustaining strength in numbers of Defence Force personnel. I
In addition, Local Bargaining measures are being introduced to support initiatives to improve retention in key capability areas.
I want to reassure the Deputy that prioritising the attraction and retention of talented individuals across the entire Defence Forces is a priority and in an ever buoyant employment market, I want to see the Defence Forces as an employer of choice.
