Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The appointments of Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations), and Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) are governed by the provisions of Section 12 of the Defence Act 1954 as amended by the Defence (Amendment) Act 1998. The Chief of Staff is appointed by the President. My Department prepares a Memorandum for Government whereby I recommend that the Government advise the President as to the Officer to be appointed to the office of Chief of Staff, and the term for which such appointment should be held. The Memorandum explains the reasons for the vacancy and the relevant legislative provisions under which the appointment is sought. A draft Press Release is also included.

On foot of the Government making its recommendation, the Government Secretariat arranges for the President to make the appointment and for publication of the appointment in the Iris Oifigiúil. I also sign a Promotion Instrument as necessary in respect of the individual officer appointed in due course.

The Deputy Chiefs of Staff are appointed by the Government. The process is essentially the same as for the Chief of Staff, other than the recommendation to the President. Details of the Government deliberations are confidential. I can however confirm that all relevant factors are considered in arriving at the Governments final decision or recommendation as the case may be.