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

Deputy Clarke should acknowledge that the pay and conditions have improved significantly over the past two years, particularly for new recruits, and compare favourably with other employments and occupations. Those coming in after the leaving certificate enjoy a base rate of approximately €37,000. The basic pay has increased and there have been other improvements. There will be further improvements.

The first priority is to recruit additional personnel into the Naval Service, Army and Air Corps. That is the overarching priority. Second, I visited Haulbowline recently and I saw in one particular area of operations, fisheries, a very successful mix of civilian and Naval Service personnel in terms of certain skill sets in which civilians were able to support Naval Service personnel. There is very good synergy and it is working well. We should be open to the idea of having a good mix of civilian and military personnel, where appropriate. That makes absolute sense, particularly in a full employment environment where there is a significant degree of competition for people.

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