THE DEFENCE FORCES is set for a major boost in resources with the government publication of a new White Paper on Defence later today.
The new proposal will mean new equipment and vehicles for the Army, Naval Services and Air corps.
The White Paper is part of the government’s plans to reform policy on defence over the next ten years.
What is included in it?
The new policy document will outline the government’s response to international peace and security.
The potential establishment of an Institute for Peace Support and Leadership, focusing specifically on peacekeeping and conflict resolution, is included in the paper.
There is also a proposal for the Defence Forces to be directly involved in an employment scheme for young people in the 18-24 age group “who might otherwise struggle to break out of cycles of disadvantage”. A pilot scheme for this is intended to begin next year.
Under the new reforms the requirements of each sector of the Defence Forces will be reassessed on a regular basis.
How important is it?
Speaking before the launch of the document, Minister for Defence Simon Coveney, said, “The White Paper on Defence reflects the important role of defence as part of the State’s security framework and whole of Government response.
It provides clear direction and a pragmatic approach to defence and to ensuring that we can continue to reflect with pride on the service provided by the Defence Forces to the security of the State.
The new policy document replaces the previous White Paper on Defence which was published in 2000.
In the development of the new document written submissions were sought, as well as consultation taking place with bodies both in Ireland and internationally.
The full White Paper will be published later today.
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