Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 87: To ask the Minister for Defence the discussions he or the Defence Forces have had with PDFORRA regarding a role that members of the Defence Forces may be asked to play in the event of widespread industrial action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9766/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I can confirm that neither I nor my Department have had discussions with PDFORRA regarding a role that members of the Defence Forces may be asked to play in the event of industrial action. In this regard I would like to advise the Deputy that the deployment of military personnel is specifically excluded from the scope of representation in the Defence Forces, as enacted. The question of discussion or consultation with the Defence Forces Representative Associations on such issues does not therefore arise.

I would emphasise that the Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme provides the Representative Associations with structures and processes which enable them to make representations and negotiate on behalf of their members. In addition a framework exists which facilitates the Associations engaging with the official side in talks parallel to those taking place between the Social Partners at National level. I am satisfied that there are sufficient and robust measures in place that allow the Representative Associations to raise and discuss any issues that do come within the scope of representation.

Amongst the roles assigned to the Defence Forces by the Government are to aid the civil power and to aid the civil authority. As the Deputy is aware the Defence Forces have in the past either provided assistance or have been put on standby to assist in the maintenance of essential services.

The level of assistance that can be provided will be subject to the resources at the disposal of the Defence Forces at the time of any particular request.

The Chief of Staff has assured me that if called upon the Defence Forces will be in a position to respond to any request within available resources.