Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I instructed my Department that I did not want a wishy-washy submission from the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces. I wanted a comprehensive evidence-based submission. It runs to well over 100 pages, with graphs of trends and everything like that. The Deputy asked when I expect the pay commission to report. In April this year a submission was sent regarding pilot retention, and we know it is a major issue because pilots are sought after in the private sector. We had been bleeding pilots, so to speak, over the past while as they went to the private sector. I wanted to ensure this matter would be prioritised. The pilot submission was made in early April and I expect we will shortly have a report on that. I am not sure when we can expect a report from the pay commission arising from the submission we made in September. At this time the commission is actively engaging with members of the military. They are having face-to-face discussions about the matters in the submission. I would like to get the commission's report as soon as possible but I am allowing it time and space to do its work.

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