Page 24 - Defence Forces Pictorial History

The Modern Era
Óglaigh na hÉireann
The Defence Forces

he late 1990s heralded a new phase in the evolution of the
Defence Forces with a major restructuring involving the
T removal of Command Headquarters, the disestablishment
of garrison units, the closure of barracks and the development of
a three brigade structure. Funds freed up from the reduction in
personnel and the sale of property were put into a re-equipment
and infrastructural programme. The period saw an increased
emphasis on planning, education and training. A range of human
resource policy initiatives were introduced which serve to cement a
commitment to best HR practice. The Defence Forces has embraced
the need for these ongoing changes as part of its culture.

As a result of multi-role tasking by the government the Naval
Service, assisted by the Air Corps, now has considerable
responsibilities in monitoring and conducting surveillance of
Irelands maritime interests.

The period saw a restructuring of the Reserve Defence Force which
involved major organisational change with access to improved
training resources, new equipment and logistic support.

The Peace Process, heralded by the signing of the Good Friday
Agreement on April 10, 1998, has reduced the intensity of the
commitment to Aid to the Civil Power Operations and has allowed
greater emphasis on training for the full spectrum of Peace
Support Operations. Ongoing world tension and the international
response to natural disasters indicate that multinational peace
support, crisis management and humanitarian operations will play
an increasing part in the activities of the Defence Forces.

A Pictorial History of Óglaigh na hÉireann, the Defence Forces of Ireland