RACO puts the figure at just 8,500.
A group representing members of the Defence Forces will be back in front of an Oireachtas Committee today, reiterating that soldiers are continuing to leave in large numbers.
The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers say they're undervalued and overstretched.
RACO says the greatest challenge facing the army remains staffing, with the organisation's strength at an all time low of 8,500.
Its General Secretary, Commandant Conor King from Athlone, says highly-trained personnel aren't staying due to pay and conditions:
Plans For 27-Acre Midlands Soccer Facility Rejected
Laois Senator Rails Against Rent Pressure Zone Legislation
Managers Should Consider Remote Work Where Possible- FRS
Tourism Minister Welcomes Government Short-Term Let Restrictions
Former Portlaoise Prison Assistant Governor Criticises Psychiatric Prisoner Numbers
Midlands Local Authority Submits Plans To Extend Living City Initiative
Laois Commuters Spend Up To Two Hours A Day Travelling To Work
"Clarity, Honesty And Fairness Must Come Before Profits" - Midlands MEP
Rent Increases Hit Westmeath Council Tenants
NUJ Warn Oireachtas AI Threatening Journalism
Midlands Tourism Businesses Awarded For Excellence
Man Accused Of Murder In 5 Star Laois Hotel Pleads Not Guilty
Time To Move On From Bord Bia Bickering - Midlands MEP
Three Midlands Schools In Line For New Special Classes
Two Men Hospitalised Following Midlands Assault
Midlands Wind Farm Opponents Face ‘Uphill Battle’
Laois Councillor Wants Clarity On NDP
"If You Build On A Floodplain, I Won't Protect You" - OPW Minister
Gardaí Investigate Laois Burglary
"The Right Action In The Wrong Location" - Action Group Campaigning Against Midlands Windfarm