Cathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for the clarification.

My next question is on the 13,065 military pensioners, which number reflects the extent of the retention crisis. I take the Minister’s point that he is aware of this issue. The big takeaway I am getting is that it is not only operationally preferable to keep people in service but also financially preferable. Many of the pensioners would still be in the Defence Forces, me included probably, were the circumstances a little different. One of the linchpins of the retention issue is that we are trying to get a chairperson for the independent implementation body under the high-level action plan. Where are we with the appointment of the independent chairperson?