Lisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is telling that the commission report singled out the Defence Forces and highlighted what we already knew, that we have a difficulty attracting people, including skilled personnel, and retaining them. The report found some evidence of specific difficulties in recruitment and retention in the Defence Forces, particularly in recruiting doctors, marine engineers, engineers and in retaining specialists and experienced personnel in engineering, ICT, pilots, avionic technicians and air traffic controllers. We are all very aware of the shortages, particularly in the Air Corps as the next priority question based on a memorandum from the general officer commanding the Air Corps, shows. Did the Department supply that memorandum to the commission? It would have been very useful information for it to have.

The submission from the Department of Defence and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform accepted that the Defence Forces are experiencing a significant exit of trained and experienced personnel due to the improving economy and the increased opportunities available to further develop their career and to achieve higher levels of salary and remuneration than that available within the service and to benefit from better overall terms and conditions. The Minister of State correctly points out that it is not just a question of pay but also career advancement, job satisfaction, being appreciated, valued and working in an environment that is fit for purpose and recognising the value of people. Those are the things that are lacking.

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