Brendan Ryan (Dublin Fingal, Labour) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State referred to RACO. At its annual conference today, RACO delegates called for a pay review body for the Defence Forces, which I and my party would support. The rate of turnover in the Defence Forces is currently 10%, which is happening without adequate retention measures or a pay review. The organisation will never reach its establishment of 9,500 personnel, despite the current high level of recruitment, because it is like constantly pouring water into a bucket with a hole at the bottom. RACO has also passed motions on allowances and has called for improved conditions, such as improved living quarters for married and single members. That would act as a very real retention tool, as it would provide a stable, secure and modern living environment for the families of Defence Forces personnel. Members of the Defence Forces are using their own voice and are calling for dignity. They are calling for the right to live a normal life in Ireland, to be able to afford the basics and to provide for themselves and their families. They need a future worth believing in, not the fear of long-term homelessness once their service is complete. I do not think that is too much to ask of a body as august as the Defence Forces.

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