Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 210: To ask the Minister for Defence when he will lift the moratorium on promotion in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20353/09]

Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 211: To ask the Minister for Defence the proposals he has to lift the ban on recruitment in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20354/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 210 and 211 together.

The Government has introduced a moratorium on recruitment and promotions in the Public Service with effect from 27 March until the end of 2010. The implications of the moratorium, which is being implemented in the Defence Forces, are currently under consideration by my officials in consultation with the military authorities. While the restriction on recruitment, promotion and payment of allowances for the performance of duties of a higher grade applies to the Defence Forces across the board, questions have arisen in relation to a number of issues and particular cases, including the impact on promotion competitions which had advanced, for example to the final medical stages. Officials from my Department and the military authorities are working together to clarify all the issues arising.