Gabrielle McFadden (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, my colleague, Senator Craughwell, mentioned the ruling by the European Committee of Social Rights in response to a case lodged by the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association, PDFORRA. The committee ruled that there was justification for the absolute prohibition of the right to strike. However, the committee has upheld the entitlement of the Irish armed forces to better collective bargaining and negotiating rights. The issue of industrial relations in the Defence Forces is big news this week. Whether the changes to pay and conditions come about as part of collective negotiations through ICTU or as a result of the review of the current conciliation and arbitration processes within the Defence Forces, one thing has become very clear. There are issues concerning pay and conditions for the Defence Forces that must be dealt with.

One issue that is of particular concern to many members of the Defence Forces is the allowance paid for security duty. In 2013 the allowance, along with other allowances paid to the Defence Forces, was cut by 10%. On top of that, a bonus rate of 40% for working on Saturdays and 60% for working on Sundays was also cut. Therefore, all days are treated the same. The Leader is probably tired of my constant raising of issues about pay and conditions for the Defence Forces but this issue is of huge concern to the men and women who serve our country with distinction. I do not argue necessarily for a specific rate for weekends but emphasise the double cut was particularly unfair. Instead, we should be looking for ways to improve the terms and conditions for members of the Defence Forces and an increased duty allowance is one way to do so. We should do so, in the first instance, to reflect the fact that the crater blown in our economy by the Fianna Fáil Government is being repaired, due in no small part by the sacrifices made by the citizens of this country, including members of the Defence Forces. We should also be aware that the improving economy offers an alternative option to the well-trained and dedicated personnel in the Defence Forces. We need to ensure that military service remains an attractive option for them.

I call on the Leader to convey to the Minister of State at the Department of Defence, Deputy Kehoe, the message that we need to address these issues promptly and to the satisfaction of all members of the Defence Forces. I also ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the matter.