Read on Twitter
1/ @irishexaminer reporting that @defenceforces struggling to fill ARW ranks. Possible solution to this is creation of a tier 2 unit within the DF. Tier 2 forces are a step below SF and are common in European armies https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40200405.html?type=amp
2/ Examples include commando forces, paratroopers, jaegers etc. The UK has a strong tier 2 force to support its SF. An Irish tier 2 force of company (+) or battalion (-) would provide an excellent platform for recruitment into ARW. Critically, the opportunity for this already
3/ exists in the 2015 White Paper. Page 65 offers the possibility of a rapid-deployment capacity to support or reinforce oseas contingents. The #defencecommission offers an opportunity to parlay this into something more concrete and of benefit to the ARW (which the WP also
4/ wishes to increase “considerably”). Given experiences in Liberia and Chad, a tier 2 unit capable of acting as an IEF is valuable as a stand-alone capability or in sp of ARW. The Dutch took this approach to their initial entry to Chad by deploying their Marine Corps as part of
5/ the Irish Bn. Sitting on the @UN SC will likely require further contribution to missions particularly in Africa as has been suggested by @simoncoveney. A well-trained cadre of tier 2 soldiers will form a much stronger pool of candidates for a tier 1 unit such as ARW and
6/ will also offer better soldiering opportunities for those many who do not pass selection. In conjunction with a naval MRV and/or increased airlift we would have a unit that could add considerable value and flexibility in the intl arena, reinforce oseas units if needed and
7/ support ARW recruitment in one go. Be interested in the thoughts of @kforfitz_Wayne @donlav @slandail_nssi and others with greater insight on the topic. End
