Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will not delay too long. As a former serving member, it is absolutely heartbreaking to see for the second time a representative body before the committee with such a bleak outlook. The RAF is protecting our sky and EU ships are protecting our seas and it is only a matter of time before G4S or some other security organisation is minding our Army barracks. I have massive respect but respect needs to be tangible and I do not see tangible respect. Indeed, very few of my colleagues who could be here today are here. I constantly hear from RACO members and members of PDFORRA severe criticism of senior military management. I do not expect our guests to respond to that but I need to put it on the record that senior military management needs to step up to the plate. Defence Force members feel that while the representative groups are working hard on their behalf, they feel somehow let down by the very top and that something has to be done. The HR system has to change. I compliment the representatives here and their members. Officers join the Defence Forces and take the President's commission to serve this country with honour. We have debased that commission, just as we debased the serving soldiers who loyally serve this State. I thank the representatives for their time and their efforts on behalf of their members.