Noel Grealish (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have put down this question on severance arrangements in view of the fact that members of the Defence Forces below the rank of sergeant have been allowed to serve a maximum of 21 years. Members at the rank of sergeant or higher may stay on until they are 50 years of age. As a result, more than 100 personnel a year are, in essence, forced out, many of whom are only in their early 40s. As finding other employment at that age can be very difficult, it is vital that we look after them properly.

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