Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am sharing time with Deputy Mattie McGrath. Ireland's involvement in European Defence Agency projects is underpinned by the Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009. It is important to note that the legislation states that any participation in such projects can be only for the purposes of enhancing capabilities for UN missions. In addition, our participation is contingent on those UN missions having the stated aim of peacekeeping, crisis management and conflict prevention.

The Government has consistently advanced motions such as this one through the Oireachtas while, at the same time, not showing a similar level of urgency in dealing with the concerns of the Defence Forces. It is deeply disappointing that the issue of pay and conditions, which we have often discussed in the House, does not receive the same level of attention. There have been many promises by this Government and the previous one on this issue, but there has been little progress. Will the Minister outline to the House the situation regarding pay and conditions and the core issues around defence-related expenditure?

These issues must be addressed. The time for rhetoric and empty promises has long passed. Our Defence Forces have a proud history of peacekeeping, yet they are being let down by the Government, with levels of remuneration well below the minimum wage. It is vital that the men and women of our Defence Forces have access to the very best training, expertise and modern technologies in order that they are properly equipped in their peacekeeping duties. Our Defence Force members have world-class skills and abilities in the area of peacekeeping.

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