The
ETDF was set up in 1999 to improve welfare and conditions for racing staff in Epsom, notably in the area of accommodation, and is about to open its second three-bedroomed house in the town, offering a home for up to six stable employees for around pounds 70 a week.
As a consequence of UNTAET's failure to address this issue earlier, although it is planned that the ETDF will consist of a light infantry force of 1,500 regulars, about two-thirds of the personnel have still to be recruited and trained.
However, the projected numbers were not met by the time of independence, and it is questionable whether such a number continues to make sense with the existence of the ETDF.
