Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This issue is far deeper than just a referral to the Public Service Pay Commission for consideration. The Army goes to the heart of our democracy. Does the Taoiseach understand that? We need a strong, proud, healthy and dynamic Defence Forces where morale is high and to which personnel are attracted to stay and develop. Our Army withstood subversion in the State for over 30 years. It raised our international reputation by bravely serving in many dangerous overseas missions. It will protect our citizens again into the future and our democracy against future threats.

The bottom line, however, is that Commandant Berry was the head of the military medical school. He met many of those contemplating leaving the Army. What struck home was the sense that they were being discriminated against not by colour or creed but by the uniform they wear. That is the overwhelming sense of many within our Defence Forces. That is why they are leaving in their droves. It is at a dangerous level. I have met officers and people across the board. They are at pains to point out how dangerous this is for our society and democracy and for the health of that democracy.

The Taoiseach needs to get that point and stop the codology that has been going on for the past two years of burying his head in the sand. There was a suggestion from Commandant Berry, which most people in the Army, whether rightly or wrongly, believe given everything else that has been announced in the past number of weeks, including €3 billion and billions more for this, that and the other. However, one thing was not announced. The Taoiseach has seen the report according to the Minister, Deputy Humphreys, as has the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and the Minister of State, Deputy Kehoe. However, it was not published in advance of the local elections. Whether that is right or wrong, that is the sense out there among members of the Defence Forces. When will the Taoiseach comprehensively respond to the wider issue and the lack of morale in our Defence Forces and the danger to our democracy as a result?

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