Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Many Members listened to various media reports in the past week in the light of the visit to Ireland of the US President. One story of particular significance related to overtime pay. Some sections got €40 per hour, while others only got €20. This situation is much like that in the health service: the Government is relying on the goodwill of professionals in order to avoid its duty of care to personnel. The Government is confident that these people will not neglect their duty and is capitalising on that and, in my opinion, taking advantage of them. This morning, I spoke to a member of the Reserve Defence Force from west Cork who is currently on duty. He confirmed that in his normal job he takes home approximately €600 after tax for working eight hours a day. A working week in the force will see him bring home €250 based on a 15-hour day. Such differences cannot be justified. My colleagues spoke of morale being at an all-time low. Is it any wonder that is so, given the situation outlined by that member? Of significance is the fact that that example pertains to a reservist. What is to be said for members of the Permanent Defence Force? What initiative is there to ensure we have fully functioning Defence Forces? What initiative is there to attract new recruits? What sense of purpose or place can be derived from a working environment such as this? Many members of the Defence Forces are decorated personnel. I ask the Minister of State to, please, treat them accordingly.

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