Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As stated in the programme for Government, we are very proud of the Defence Forces and the patriotism and professionalism the Army, the Naval Service and the Air Corps demonstrate, both at home and abroad. While the increased investment in key military infrastructure is necessary, there is also a need to address pay and allowances for members of the Defence Forces. The Public Service Pay Commission process must come to a conclusion sooner rather than later. It must recognise the valuable role played by the Defence Forces. Some specific military allowances must be addressed to ensure more appropriate take-home pay for troops.

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