Minister Coveney attends Army Reserve Commissioning Ceremony.

Minister for Defence, Mr. Simon Coveney, T.D., today (Sunday 14 November 2021) attended the Army Reserve Commissioning Ceremony at the Defence Forces Training Centre, on the Curragh, Co. Kildare.

Speaking at the Commissioning Ceremony, Minister Coveney offered his congratulations to the 29 newly commissioned officers of the Army Reserve and remarked that “this Commissioning Ceremony is a very special occasion as it marks the graduation of the newest cohort of officers to serve in the Reserve Defence Force”.

Minister Coveney added “I wish to take the opportunity to pay tribute to the Reserve and the time and commitment each member gives to the Service on an entirely voluntary basis. I envisage a bright future for the Reserve Defence Force, particularly with the prospect of tangible change resulting from the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2020. The amendments proposed will enhance the role of the RDF by removing certain legislative restrictions within the Defence Act on the activities performed, in support of the Permanent Defence Force”.

The Minister also commented on the upcoming outcome of the Commission on the Defence Forces which is due at the end of the year. ‘I am looking forward to the outcome of this body of work, which will include recommendations on the future role and structure of the Reserve. It is indeed an exciting time to be stepping into your role as new officers of the Reserve and I wish you every success.’