Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The length of service marks were incorrectly awarded. Two applicants were placed above this man and as a result, he was not promoted. The ombudsman's recommendation was that the administrative error should be acknowledged with a suitable expression of regret, that appropriate acknowledgement and appreciation of the complainant's long distinguished service in the Defence Forces be offered to him and that a gesture in respect of the wrong suffered by the complainant would be appropriate, having regard to the consequences of the administrative error for the complainant and the range of discretions available to the Minister. The consequences of the administrative error are massive for this officer. He has lost two years service as a colonel with all the salary conditions appropriate to the post. He has lost out on a considerable amount with respect to the gratuity difference between the lump sum for a lieutenant colonel and a colonel. He has suffered an enduring loss of pension with respect to the difference between the pension of a colonel and a lieutenant colonel. In addition, the officer would have been entitled to apply for and possibly would have served overseas at a rank senior to that of colonel, an acting rank, which would have had a considerable impact on his pension entitlements.

There is more that I need to say. As I am under pressure from the Acting Chairman, I am not going to push my luck. This is a very serious case. I hope, once we have concluded our debate, that he will agree to meet the officer in question, who is here, and have a brief word with him. I thank the Acting Chairman to whom I apologise for pushing my luck.