Defence Forces a 'basket case' as personnel crisis deepens 

Independent TD Cathal Berry said the 25% drop in our military personnel numbers must be immediately addressed with better retention measures

Between May 1, 2022, and May 1, 2023, the Defence Forces lost 932 personnel (74 officers and 858 other ranks). During that period, 288 were so desperate to leave they paid to be discharged from the military, of whom 106 were recruits. File picture: Sam Boal/Photocall Ireland

The Defence Forces has been labelled a "basket case" in personnel numbers, according to a former elite unit officer.

His assertion is backed up by figures obtained by the Irish Examiner which show the military is on the brink of extinction if, as expected, large numbers exit the force this year.