In relation to internal security, the Defence Forces provide aid to the civil power by supporting the Garda S och na. The hopes for a lasting peace in Northern Ireland could potentially transform domestic security considerations. In relation to policy in both international and national domains, the approach in the Defence White Paper will be to focus on the sound management of Defence in the medium term and seek a flexible stance which will facilitate future decisions in the security sphere. Many of the required changes involved a longer time-frame than the initial three year plan. The White Paper will consider the progress already made, identify further changes and develop strategies to achieve them.
Significant change is underway.
The plan involves the creation of a new Defence Forces structure based around three Army brigades, a Defence Forces Headquarters, Training Centre and Logistics Base, the Air Corps and the Naval Service. The reduced manpower level of around 11,500 provided for under the Defence Forces Review Implementation Plan will be reached this year. New manpower policies have been introduced aimed at achieving a younger age profile and better career progression for military personnel. A policy of regular recruitment of new soldiers has been put in place and new training programmes are being introduced. Investment in physical and equipment infrastructure is progressing.