Ms Clare Tiernan:

Again, I will take it. I thank Senator Craughwell for his questions. There is consultation taking place with the representative associations. In fact, we have just received their formal written observations, and the consultations will continue. In addition, there are consultations taking place with other bodies on the text of the general scheme. Today is part of that consultation process also.

As I outlined to Deputy Carthy, and as Senator Craughwell is well aware, the structures in the Defence Forces are significantly different to any other employment. They are unique. There is an internal system of military justice. There is no comparable employment in the country that compares with it. The Defence Forces have their own military judge and director of military prosecutions. It is about being independent and the perception of independence. That is the reason for this provision. I will take on board what has been said around the table here. We do have very strong views from the representative associations in relation to these matters and we will reflect on what has been said.