DEFENCE:THE DEFENCE Forces are "well capable" of withstanding a funding reduction of €30 million because of "massive investment" over the past 12 years, the Minister for Defence has said.
“While the remaining savings in spending will cause some difficulties for Defence Force management, they have shown their capacity to adapt and change and I have no doubt they will do so now,” Willie O’Dea said.
Despite cutbacks, several important equipment purchases were to continue and the Defence Forces could continue their overseas peace-support duties, he said.
The largest savings, €10 million, would come from the UN taking over funding of the Eufor mission in Chad.
The department said prioritising building and refurbishment this year would save €9 million, cutting fuel and utility costs, €2 million, and the embargo on promotions and moratorium on recruitment, €4 million.
