CONFIDENT IAL
3RD DRAFT
5.
During 1973 and 1974, Headquarters UKLF undertook a review
of the TAVR to ascertain, within currently defined roles and
resources, the scope for improvements in organisation and functioning.
The review committee made significant recommendations affecting unit
re-organisation, recruiting, training and career opportunities.
Many of the recommendations have already been implemented and those
involving the re-organisation of units will become effective during
1975.
6. The TAVR reached a record strength of 59,500 during 1972. This
had declined to 53,300 on 1
January 1975, but it is hoped that this
Spring's recruitment campaign will improve the manning situation.
7.
THE ULSTER DEFENCE REGIMENT
The part-time Ulster Defence Regiment forms an integral part
of the Security Forces in Northern Ireland and its growing profess-
ionalism has enabled it to play an increasingly important role in
anti-terrorist operations in support of the Regular Army. The
Regiment's duties include guarding key installations, manning
checkpoints and providing mobile patrols. Patrolling duties are
assuming a steadily growing importance.
8. The recruitment of women to the Regiment began in August 1973.
The women's primary task is searching women for explosives and
They are also undertaking administrative work, which
weapons.
has enabled more men to be released for operational duties.
9. The overall strength of the Regiment on 1 January 1975 was
7,700, including 500 women.
During 1973 and 1974, 15 members of the
Regiment were killed as a direct result of terrorist activity,
IV-2
CONFIDENTIAL