THE Government's Defence Force reforms were approved during private members' time. A government motion, carried by 66 votes to 54, supported the implementation of the recommendations of the Efficiency Audit Group and commended the drawing up by the Minister for Defence of the first three year phase of a reform programme. It was tabled in response to a Fianna Fail motion which deplored "the lack of vision and strategic" planning for the forces and the Government's refusal to state its intentions on the closure of barracks.
The Fianna Fail motion was moved on Tuesday by the party spokesman, Mr Michael Smith, who promised a White Paper on defence when Fianna Fail returned to office.
The Minister for Defence, Mr Barrett, said the closure of barracks was not on the Government's agenda, but Fianna Fail speakers warned the closures would happen because of cutbacks and reduced numbers.