Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand there are some former members of the Defence Forces who are willing to return and contribute to removing the deficits in the Defence Forces. While the matter is being addressed in a more long-term manner by the approach being taken by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform with regard to the report of the Public Pay Commission, many members of the Defence Forces must retire early or take leave for a variety of reasons. A large volume of these members are fit and healthy and still desire to work on behalf of their country. They bring a huge wealth of experience and value to the Defence Forces. Members of the Defence Forces can serve up for to 21 years in the ranks of private and corporal, subject to meeting the demands of fitness, overseas service and medical and training criteria. Members in the rank of sergeant and higher can serve up to age of 50 years, the minimum pension age. PDFORRA has made repeated calls for this limit to be extended and it could be cost-effective for the State.

See this speech in context