Cathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We all go to retirement presentations from time to time. They are really important because they allow us to acknowledge and recognise the contributions of particular workers to particular workplaces. What is perhaps even more important is that retirement presentations signal to the remaining workforce that their contributions are also appreciated and valued. I mention this because I will today raise the precarious employment contracts enlisted members of the Defence Forces are forced to accept, particularly those contracts for sergeants who are approaching their 50th birthday. Many people may not be aware of this but a 50-year-old sergeant must retire on his or her birthday. Under the circumstances, when you consider the retention crisis and the fact that our 50-year-old sergeants are the most experienced, respected and motivated people we have, this appears to be madness.

That is a big issue that needs be addressed. We need to focus on how to improve things from a sergeant's perspective.

I have two questions for the Taoiseach. Does he know anything about the terms and conditions upon which these new sergeants' contracts will be approved? In fairness to the Minister for Defence, he accepts that a sergeant's career should be extended to around 55 years of age. We have yet to see the terms and conditions they will be re-engaged on.

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