Gabrielle McFadden (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I also bang on about the same thing day in and day out. The Department has confirmed that it is willing to pay the increases with effect from 1 October.Unfortunately, the Department has also confirmed that it is unwilling to pay the arrears. This would be in connection with the adjudication on pay for cook technicians, Army rangers, account holders and recruits who must pay for their rations and accommodation. I welcome this decision but it is terrible that we had to raise the issue so much. Senator Craughwell and I have raised the issue many times. It is terrible that it has taken so long to reach the position where the provision will have commenced on 1 October. I am exceptionally disappointed that the arrears will not be paid. As I have said in the House on numerous occasions, this affects several of my friends, two of whom have passed away since this all started. Their wives and widows will not get this adjudication or arrears. Some of my friends have retired and will not get this adjudication paid to them, which is very disappointing.

A rebate should be considered for recruits. In recent years recruits have had to pay for their accommodation and rations. At the very least, and especially as there will be no back pay, they should get a rebate for their expenditure. They have paid for training so should get their money back.

I urge both sides to discuss whether there are alternatives to the absolute denial of the arrears payment. PDFORRA has suggested legal action, as has Senator Craughwell. I would be very nervous of taking legal action until I know that the recruits and cook technicians get what they deserve. Let us get them paid first from 1 October and then consider the adjudication or court proceedings. It is vital that these people get their money because they are entitled to this money. Nobody who works for the Defence Forces should be hungry when they get up in the morning and go out to work. I do not blame the Department of Defence but I blame the Department of Finance. It is vital that we deal with this matter. PDFORRA should see if there is a way to deal with this matter first and at least allow the payments dating from 1 October to be made.