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:
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