Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

The figure for sick days is out of line. With regard to sick days, the figures I have show that the average in the public sector is 3.5 whereas in the Army it is 13. The nature of being involved in a military force is different from being involved in the Garda Síochána or other occupations. The training is very physical, much time is spent outdoors and the people face challenging situations. This is why they need adequate medical backup. There is a fundamental failure in our service to our Defence Forces which is reflected in the number of days spent on sick leave. People who do not want to be on sick leave cannot get treated or be seen by consultants or the medical board. It is serious and the Minister must deal with the matter as soon as possible and not wait for a consultancy report which may not come out for another year given the way consultancy reports are finalised.

See this speech in context