Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The proposed legislation to which the Deputy refers arises from recommendations contained in the first report of the working group on industrial relations structures for an Garda Síochána. It is not proposed at this stage to make similar legislative provisions in respect of the Defence Forces.

I have initiated a review of the conciliation and arbitration scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force. The scheme, since its inception in the early 1990s, has provided the framework to progress many successful negotiated agreements between defence management and the Permanent Defence Force representative associations.

There have been many changes in the industrial relations landscape in the intervening period. I consider it timely and appropriate to conduct a fundamental review of the scheme to ensure that it remains efficient and effective to all parties.

As I stated earlier in reply to Deputy Lisa Chambers, I have appointed Mr. Gerard Barry as an independent chairperson for the review. The chairperson will seek input from the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, PDFORRA and RACO. There will also be wider consultation with relevant stakeholders.

While the focus of the review will be primarily on the operation of the Permanent Defence Force conciliation and arbitration scheme, as part of the review consideration will be given as to how the scheme operates, having regard to other redress and dispute resolution processes within the Defence Forces. Broader public sector pay negotiation processes and agreements must also be taken into consideration.

The review will also consider the complaint taken by EUROMIL on behalf of PDFORRA concerning certain trade union rights for military representative associations. I understand that a decision in this case is imminent.

I have directed that the chairperson provide a report to me no later than six months from the start of the review.

It would be premature at this stage to make arrangements for legislative changes concerning Permanent Defence Force representative associations in advance of the completion of the report.

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