Army Strength Plummets Below 6,000 As More People Continue To Leave The Defence Forces Than Join

Tuesday, 13 August 2024 10:26

By Martin Osborne

Personnel numbers have steadily declined each year since 2015, resulting in nearly 2,000 fewer members compared to that year.

The size of the army has fallen below 6,000 for the first time in recent memory, now standing 1,500 below the essential minimum required.

Recent data compiled by the Irish Examiner reveals that more individuals continue to exit the Defence Forces than join.

The Defence Forces press office confirmed that, as of June 30, the total strength of the nation’s military has decreased to 7,399 - 2,100 short of the required minimum.

Personnel numbers have steadily declined each year since 2015, resulting in nearly 2,000 fewer members compared to that year.

By the end of last year, the army’s strength was 6,136, the air corps had 689 members, and the naval service was at 725.

A total of 758 personnel exited the Defence Forces last year, leaving due to retirement, resignation, or medical reasons.

However, in 2023, only 415 new recruits were brought in.

The Defence Forces face stiff competition from the private sector, which often offers better pay, conditions, and career advancement opportunities.

The downward trend has persisted in the first half of this year.

By June 30, the strength of the army, air corps, and naval service stood at 5,959, 707, and 733 respectively.

During this period, another 338 personnel left, while only 240 new recruits were added.

Ideally, the army should maintain at least 7,520 personnel, the naval service 1,094, and the air corps 886.

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