Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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14. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will outline the current number and type of ships within the naval fleet; the current number and type of aircraft operated by the Air Corps; and the current plans for capital acquisitions in each instance. [22813/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained and developed. This is to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government, as set out in the White Paper on Defence.

In this context, the principal aim over the period of the White Paper is to replace and upgrade, as required, existing capabilities in order to retain a flexible response for a wide range of operational requirements at home and overseas.

Equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are being considered as part of the capability development and Equipment Development Planning (EDP) process. A five year Equipment Development Plan for continued re-equipment was developed on a civil military basis and was published in June 2020. The Equipment Planning process recognises the need to maintain and upgrade military capabilities having regard to emerging priorities, operational requirements and changes in technology. This is an ongoing iterative process.

The Naval Service, as the State's principal sea-going agency, is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. While the main day to day tasking of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union, it also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks in tandem with maritime surveillance, and as such any Naval Service patrol should be viewed as a multi-faceted activity.

The Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme is ongoing. The programme includes radar and other equipment upgrades along with the replacement of Naval Service Reserve motor launches. The programme of works for the midlife refit and upgrade of LÉ Róisín has been completed, while works are ongoing on LÉ Niamh. Marine Advisors have been appointed to support the procurement of a multi-role vessel to replace the now decommissioned flagship, LÉ Eithne, with work underway that will inform a public tender competition, in line with the Public Spending Code, in due course.

Two Inshore Patrol Vessels purchased from the New Zealand Government to replace the decommissioned LÉ Orla and LÉ Ciara have been transported to Ireland following the completion of a programme of works. Additional work and preparation is required in Cork prior to the vessels becoming operational by early 2024.

The Naval Service has a fleet of four Offshore Patrol Vessels: –

• P61 LÉ SAMUEL BECKETT,
• P62 LÉ JAMES JOYCE,
• P63 LÉ WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS
• P64 LÉ GEORGE BERNARD SHAW

• P51 LÉ ROISIN, which is in Operational Reserve
• P52 LÉ NIAMH, which is currently undergoing a Mid-Life Refit.

• Two (2) CASA CN-235 aircraft, which entered service in 1994. Their primary function is as Maritime Patrol Aircraft, while also functioning in the secondary roles of air ambulance, logistics support and transport.
• One (1) Learjet 45, which entered service in 2004. It's primary function is a Ministerial Air Transport (MATS) aircraft. The Learjet, also functions in the roles of airambulance and transport as required.
• Four (4) Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, which entered service in 2020. Their primary function is Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), they also function in air ambulance and transport roles as required.
• Eight (8) Pilatus PC-9M aircraft which entered service in 2004. Their primary function is pilot training.
• One (1) Britten Norman Defender 4000 which entered service in 1997. This aircraft is operated in conjunction with An Garda Síochána as a Garda Air Support Unit aircraft.

• Six (6) Augusta Westland AW139 aircraft. The AW 139s entered service in 2006 and their primary functions are as army/naval support and air ambulance including the Emergency Aeromedical Service. These aircraft can also function in the roles of aerial fire-fighting, cargo-slinging and transport.
• Two (2) Eurocopter EC135P2 aircraft which entered service in 2005. Their primary functions are helicopter pilot training and army support, they may also function in theroles of air ambulance and transport as required.
• Two (2) Eurocopter EC135T2. These aircraft entered service in 2003 and are operated in conjunction with An Garda Síochána as a Garda Air Support Unit aircraft.

The programme for the supply of two C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft is well underway with delivery of the aircraft expected later this year. For complex equipment purchases such as aircraft there is an extensive period of training which will take several months.

In relation to the Government Jet, extensive Public Spending Code analysis took place in 2022, culminating in the decision to commence a procurement competition for the replacement of the Learjet. A joint civil military project team has been established and planning is underway for a procurement.

Alongside the four PC-12 aircraft acquired in 2020, some €344 million, including VAT, has been committed to the acquisition of all of these enhanced air domain capabilities.

The Department of Defence has received a capital allocation under the National Development Plan of €566 million over the 2022 to 2025 timeframe. The Defence annual capital budget for 2023 is €176 million. The recent Budget for 2023 included an increase of €67m over the 2022 budget for Defence. This includes an almost 25% increase in Capital funding and demonstrates the Government’s strong commitment to support the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern, agile military force, capable of responding to increasingly complex security threats.

This is following Government approval for a move over a six-year period to a level of Defence Forces’ capability equivalent to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission on Defence Forces, which will entail funding increases to reach a Defence budget of approximately €1.5 billion (at January 2022 prices) by 2028 through the annual Estimates.

This level of capital funding will allow the Defence Organisation to undertake a programme of sustained equipment replacement and infrastructural development across the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as identified and prioritised in the Defence White Paper and the Report of the Commission, while building on the significant investment programme over recent years.

John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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15. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence for a report on his most recent engagement with the Women of Honour Group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22698/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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While acknowledging the high regard in which the Defence Forces is held and the many honest hardworking individuals amongst the ranks, as I have already stated, one cannot but be disturbed and upset by the contents in the Report of the Independent Review Group. The conclusions in the Report are stark and shocking and go to the very heart of issues relating to dignity, mutual respect and equality issues in the Defence Forces.

As I have already indicated, a completely honest appraisal of the problems and a comprehensive plan to address them is the only way to honour the contribution of serving and retired personnel and rebuild trust.

As the Deputy will also be aware from my previous statements today, the Government has agreed to progress the report’s recommendations including the establishment of a statutory inquiry to investigate whether there have been serious systemic failures in dealing with individual complaints in relation to interpersonal issues, including but not limited to sexual misconduct.

I met with a number of stakeholders on 27th March, including a cohort of serving members, the Representative Associations, Women of Honour, and Men and Women of Honour, to advise them that I intended to bring the Report to Government on Tuesday 28th March. While I could not share that report with the groups at that time, I did commit to meeting with each group again, once they had an opportunity to consider the Report in full.

I subsequently met again with stakeholders on 2 May last, including the Women of Honour group. In addition, the Secretary General, Department of Defence met with the Defence Forces Veteran Associations and with Civil and Civilian Employee Unions.

In line with the Government's commitment to establish a Statutory Inquiry to examine the extent of systemic failures in how certain complaints were handled I have consulted with the Attorney General in respect of its establishment and also obtained assistance in the preparation of draft terms of reference for the Inquiry.

At the meetings, a draft of proposed terms of reference for the forthcoming Statutory Inquiry were shared. I requested the groups to provide feedback in writing to me so that their observations can be considered in preparing the terms of reference.

I would like to thank stakeholders who have provided observations to date. I look forward to receiving the observations of each of the Groups. The receipt of this material will pave the way for further engagement and consultation with stakeholders on the nature of the Inquiry and the proposed terms of reference.

Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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16. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence for a report on the implementation of the working time directive recommended in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22683/23]

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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44. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to implement the working time directive within the Defence Forces. [22814/23]

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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200. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his intentions regarding the implementation the Working Time Directive; his proposed timeframe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22786/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 44 and 200 together.

The Defence Forces are currently excluded from the provisions of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, which transposed the EU Working Time Directive into Irish Law.

I wish to assure you however I am fully committed to ensuring that the provisions of the Working Time Directive are applied, where appropriate, to its members. This is in line with the Government commitment to remove the blanket exemption in the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 for both the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána.

The removal of the blanket exemption in the Organisation of Working Time Act for the Defence Forces is a complex matter given the nature of some military activities. An extensive amount of work undertaken by military management, has already determined that a high percentage of the normal everyday work of the Defence Forces is already in compliance with the Working Time Directive.

Recent European Case Law on military service, however, has also been clear that certain activities due to their specific nature, can be considered outside the scope of the Directive. The provisions of this Ruling have duly informed the proposed management position, which has as its guiding principle, the fundamental requirement to ensure that appropriate rights and protections with regard to health and safety, are afforded to serving members, while also ensuring that the Defence Forces can continue to fulfil their essential state functions.

Consultation with the Representative Associations on the implementation of the Working Time Directive is continuing, through a Sub-Committee of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme, and a number of issues raised by the Associations are being actively examined by both civilian and military management respectively.

I fully recognise the importance of implementing the provisions of the Directive and the positive impact it will have on serving members and I have directed that a final management position on the implementation of the Directive is to be submitted to me for my consideration and approval in the coming weeks.

To this end, I understand that a series of facilitated theme-based discussions between my officials, military management, and the Representative Associations, are scheduled to take place in the coming days.

I welcome this increased momentum and do not intend to pre-empt the outcome of those engagements at this time.

Upon my approval of a final management position on the implementation of the Directive, my Department will be engaging formally with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment who will take forward the appropriate legislative framework.

Responsibility for preparing the legislative framework required to bring the Defence Forces within the scope of the Act lies with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment and my officials are continuing to engage actively with that Department on this matter.

I can assure the Deputy that the health and safety of personnel in the Defence Forces remains an absolute priority for myself and the Chief of Staff and we remain fully committed to ensuring that the provisions of the Working Time Directive are applied as appropriate, throughout the Defence Forces.

Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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17. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Women of Honour Group have expressed concerns to him about the membership of the External Oversight Body for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22847/23]

Mark Ward (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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49. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will agree with the Women of Honour Group in allowing his appointees to the External Oversight Board for the Defence Forces to be vetted for appropriateness by the Oireachtas Defence Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22719/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 49 together.

As I have outlined in my response to an earlier question, the Government has agreed to progress the Independent Review Group’s thirteen recommendations, including the setting up an External Oversight Body, on a non-statutory basis initially, to increase transparency and accountability; and to drive necessary culture change throughout the Defence Forces. I will also be bringing forward legislation shortly, to put the Body on a statutory footing.

I moved quickly on the establishment of the External Oversight Body because I wanted to create momentum around the implementation of the IRG's recommendations and , in particular, to drive the necessary culture change required.

I have stated already that I do not believe that some of the commentary in respect of the Oversight Body has been fair or reasonable. Its establishment and its membership was approved by Government, and is fully in line with the recommendation in the IRG Report on external oversight of the Defence Forces.

The Review Group was very explicit, in the report, on the membership of the oversight body and it is on the basis of this guidance, that the Government made the appointments to the External Oversight Body on 5 April, including the Secretary General of the Department of Defence.

I wish to thank the members of the Body, under the chair of Professor Brian MacCraith, for agreeing to undertake this important work. We are fortunate to have members of that calibre and experience to undertake the role.

I am also pleased to announce that with the agreement of Government this morning, I have today appointed Ms. Sam des Forges to the Body.

Ms des Forges, is the Director of Conduct, Equity and Justice in the Ministry of Defence in the United Kingdom and has very relevant experience in the areas of diversity and inclusion, transformation of Defence Forces complaints system, implementation of reforms relating to culture and unacceptable behaviours with the Defence Forces.

Ms des Forges unique personal experience, expertise and insight will be of huge value to the Body.

The need for the Secretary General to be on the Body was recommended by the IRG for good reason, and reflects the important link between the External Oversight Body and the administration of Government.

The first task of the Body is to develop detailed Terms of Reference for my approval in line with the recommendations of the Report.

There appears to be some conflation of matters in public commentary regarding the role of the External Oversight Body and the Statutory Inquiry which the Government has committed to establishing to investigate whether there have been serious systemic failures in dealing with individual complaints, including sexual misconduct.

The work (and scope) of the External Oversight Body, is future focused and will enable the transformation of the current workplace and for the avoidance of any doubt, the newly established External Oversight Body, will not have any role with regard to the Statutory Inquiry.

As set out previously in the Dáil, I intend to bring forward Terms of Reference for this Inquiry as soon as possible. I have also confirmed that the Department of Defence must and will be included in the Terms of Reference for the Statutory Inquiry.

As already stated, my end goal is a safe workplace where self-worth and dignity is actively promoted and mutual respect becomes a dominant feature in an organisation which is open to change. The External Oversight Body will have a critical role to play as we commence the process of transformation.

John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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19. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the current strength of the Defence Forces across all three services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22697/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The military authorities advise that, as at the end of March 2023, the number of personnel in the Defence Forces stood at 7,807, comprised of 6,333 Army personnel, 716 Air Corp personnel and 758 Naval Service personnel.

The current establishment of the Defence Forces is 9,500 personnel. Sanction has recently been received for 100 extra positions to facilitate the implementation of the report on the Commission on the Defence Forces. This is in addition to the pending appointments of a civilian Head of Strategic HR, and a civilian Head of Transformation, in the Defence Forces.

I have previously acknowledged the current staffing difficulties in the Defence Forces, and work is ongoing to counter these. The problem is most acute in the enlisted ranks, as Officer ranks remain above establishment. Current recruitment initiatives include ongoing general service recruitment, targeted service specific recruitment, direct entry recruitment, and the re-entry schemes.

The 'Be More' recruitment campaign highlights the career opportunities available in the Defence Forces and also the wider benefits of membership. A Naval Service specific recruitment campaign is being developed, and a contract has recently been awarded to a marine specialist recruitment body to target individuals with the skills and expertise required by the Naval Service.

Retention measures include service commitment schemes in the Air Corps and Naval Service, and the sea-going naval personnel tax credit.

I recently secured agreement to further extend the service of post-94 Privates and Corporals, similar to the interim arrangement agreed previously for Sergeants. This allows for their continuance in service to the end of 2024.

There has been significant progress on pay as a result of increases arising from the Public Service Pay Commission report, from recent pay agreements and from the early implementation of some of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

Current pay rates including Military Service Allowances for recruits on completion of their training, start at €37,147 in Year 1, rising to €38,544 in Year 2, and €39,832 in Year 3 of service. A graduate cadet on commissioning starts on a payscale, which includes Military Service Allowance that ranges from €46,406 to €54,696 depending on the type of appointment. A school leaver cadet starts at €41,123 whilst in full-time third level education. These compare very favourably with the starting pay with other areas of the public service.

Arising from the completion of another early action of the Commission on the Defence Forces report, which was also a commitment in the Programme for Government, I have recently secured agreement on the provision of private secondary medical care to all members of the Permanent Defence Force, a facility only available to Officers up to now. This is in addition to the comprehensive primary medical and dental care available to all personnel.

My immediate focus is on stabilising the numbers of personnel in the Defence Forces and thereafter increasing strength to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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20. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will outline his engagements with the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform in relation to the work of the Inter-Departmental Working Group relating to service limits for Commissioned Officers and senior Non-Commissioned Officer ranks; and if he intends to amend the mandatory retirement ages applicable to members of the Defence Forces. [22817/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Military life places unique demands on individuals and it is necessary that Defence Forces personnel are prepared to meet the challenges of all military operations. For this reason compulsory retirement ages for ranks in the Permanent Defence Force are considerably lower than in other employments.

A joint civil/military review of mandatory retirement ages and service limits in the Permanent Defence Force was completed in 2021. The Report of the Review Group made a number of recommendations for extended service limits across a number of ranks in the Defence Forces.

Members of the Permanent Defence Force have superannuation arrangements which allows them to accrue pension benefits over an accelerated shorter timeframe to compensate for the fact that they have to retire at a relatively early age. Any proposals to amend the service limits or retirement ages of members of the Defence Forces must be in accordance with public sector pay and pension policy and requires the approval of the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform.

The Department of for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform established an Inter-Departmental Working Group to consider mandatory retirement ages and service limits for public service groups who have 'fast accrual' occupational pension arrangements. The recommendations from the joint civil/military review of mandatory retirement ages in the Permanent Defence Force are being considered as part of the work of this group.

Pending the outcome of the work of the Interdepartmental Group, an agreement was secured in December 2021, which allows for Privates and Corporals, who were recruited to the Permanent Defence Force on or after 1 January 1994, to remain in service up to 50 years of age, subject to them meeting established criteria including medical and fitness standards.

In October 2022, an interim arrangement was secured which allows for the continuance in service, to the end of 2024, of Sergeants who were recruited to the Permanent Defence Force on or after 1 January 1994, who were due to be retired on age grounds at age 50 prior to that date.

I recently secured a similar agreement to extend this interim arrangement to Privates and Corporals recruited on or after 1 January 1994.

There are clear staffing challenges across the Defence Forces. I have discussed this matter on a number of occasions with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform and interim arrangements have been put in place to facilitate Privates, Corporals and Sergeants who wish to remain in service up to the end of 2024.

In relation to broader issue of mandatory retirement ages in the Defence Forces, the Department of Defence is continuing to participate on the Inter-Departmental Group established to consider mandatory retirement ages and service limits for public service groups who have 'fast accrual' occupational pension arrangements.

James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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21. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will outline the number from the Defence Forces who are currently on peacekeeping missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22893/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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As of 1 May 2023, Ireland is contributing 534 personnel to 9 different missions throughout the world. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 333 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 134 personnel.Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various United Nations and OSCE missions and personnel to staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO/PfP and OSCE headquarters.

Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations, in the maintenance of international peace and security, is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

Full details of all personnel currently serving in missions overseas are listed in the tabular statement below.

MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS

As of 1 May 2023

* Includes Major General Maureen O'Brien serving on secondment to the United Nations following her appointment by the UN as Deputy Military Advisor in the Office of Military Affairs, Department of Peace Operations.

Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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22. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his response to criticisms of the draft terms of references for a statutory inquiry into abuse within the Defence Forces; if he will amend the draft terms of reference; and if he will engage with stakeholders such as the Women of Honour group before doing so. [22815/23]

Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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36. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his response to the concerns expressed by the Women on Honour group that the terms of reference for the statutory inquiry recommended by the Independent Review Group into the Defence Forces are too restricted and narrow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22848/23]

Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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42. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence for an update on the establishment of the statutory inquiry recommended by the Independent Review Group into the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22627/23]

Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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52. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of the promised statutory inquiry to identify systemic failures in the Defence Forces complaints system, including in relation to sexual misconduct; the timeline for the statutory inquiry; the terms of reference of the statutory inquiry; the person or body that tasked with carrying out the statutory inquiry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22850/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 36, 42 and 52 together.

While acknowledging the high regard in which the Defence Forces is held and the many honest hardworking individuals amongst the ranks, one cannot but be disturbed and upset by the contents in the Report of the Independent Review Group. It is stark and shocking and goes to the very heart of issues relating to dignity, mutual respect and equality issues in the Defence Forces.

A completely honest appraisal of the problems and a comprehensive plan to address them is the only way to honour the contribution of serving and retired personnel and rebuild trust.

The Government agreed to progress, as a priority, the report’s recommendations including the establishment of a statutory inquiry toinvestigate whether therehave been serious systemic failures in dealing with individual complaints in relation to interpersonal issues,including but not limited to sexual misconduct.

I have consulted with the Attorney General in respect of the establishment of the Statutory Inquiry. The Attorney General has assisted in the preparation of the draft terms of reference for the Inquiry.

I had a number of meetings with key stakeholders on 2 May last, including the Defence Womens Network, the Defence Forces Representative Associations, the Women of Honour group and the Men and Women of Honour group. In addition, the Secretary General, Department of Defence met with the Defence Forces Veteran Associations and with Civil and Civilian Employee Unions.

At the meetings, a draft of proposed terms of reference for the forthcoming Statutory Inquiry were shared. I requested the groups to provide feedback in writing to me so that their observations can be considered in preparing the terms of reference. There will be further engagement and consultation with stakeholders on the nature of the Inquiry and the proposed terms of reference.

Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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23. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he has undertaken a study to determine the number of staff at the Defence Forces that are living below the poverty line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22662/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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With its approval of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, this Government has committed to a range of actions to address pay and recruitment issues in the Defence Forces. These include a number of projects undertaken to bolster the attractiveness of a career in the Defence Forces, and cover a range of measures which will improve pay and conditions.

It is also worth noting in this regard that the Report observed that much of the commentary surrounding issues of pay in the Defence Forces does not seem to fully reflect the totality of the remuneration package and believes that this needs to be better communicated.

Starting rates of pay in the Defence Forces compare very well to comparable rates of pay across the public service. In addition there is scope for further income from duty allowances and allowances for overseas service, with tax free duty allowance starting at €15,000 for a 6 month deployment.

The implementation of the Commission on Defence Force measures in 2022 resulted in the following pay rates being increased. These rates include Military Service Allowance, which is pensionable.

Following the most recent pay increases, of 2% on 1^stMarch 2023 under the extension to the Building Momentum pay agreement, Recruits on completion of training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), start at:

• €37,147 in Year 1 – equating to €712 per week in Year 1
• €38,544 in Year 2
• €39,832 in Year 3

Military service allowance is an allowance that is paid for the unpredictable nature of the work encountered by the Defence Forces.

This information is published and routinely updated on military.ie, and is available at the following link:

Current Competitions - Defence Forces (military.ie)

On this basis, I do not propose to undertake a study to determine the number of staff at the Defence Forces that are living below the poverty line.

Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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24. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the target for recruitment to the Defence Forces in the next 12 months. [22911/23]

Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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27. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent of recruitment planned for the Defence Forces in 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22684/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 27 together.

I have been advised by the military authorities that they forecast a total of 709 General Service Recruits and Cadets being inducted in 2023. The Defence Forces remain committed to optimising the number of personnel inducted and so will continue to also target Air Corps Apprentice Aircraft Technicians and specialists for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service.

Sanction has recently been received for 100 extra positions to facilitate the implementation of the Report on the Commission on the Defence Forces. This is in addition to the pending appointments of a civilian Head of Strategic HR, and a civilian Head of Transformation, in the Defence Forces.

I have previously acknowledged the current staffing difficulties in the Defence Forces, and work is ongoing to counter these. The problem is most acute in the enlisted ranks as Officer ranks remain above establishment. Current recruitment initiatives include ongoing general service recruitment, targeted service specific recruitment, direct entry recruitment, and the re-entry schemes.

The 'Be More' recruitment campaign highlights the career opportunities available in the Defence Forces and also the wider benefits of membership. A Naval Service specific recruitment campaign is being developed, and a contract has recently been awarded to a marine specialist recruitment body to target individuals with the skills and expertise required by the Naval Service.

Retention measures include service commitment schemes in the Air Corps and Naval Service, and the sea-going naval personnel tax credit.

I recently secured agreement to further extend the service of post-94 Privates and Corporals, similar to the interim arrangement agreed previously for Sergeants. This allows for their continuance in service to the end of 2024.

There has been significant progress on pay as a result of increases arising from the Public Service Pay Commission report, from recent pay agreements and from the early implementation of some of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

Current pay rates including Military Service Allowances for recruits on completion of their training, start at €37,147 in Year 1, rising to €38,544 in Year 2, and €39,832 in Year 3 of service. A graduate cadet on commissioning starts on a payscale, which includes Military Service Allowance that ranges from €46,406 to €54,696 depending on the type of appointment. A school leaver cadet starts at €41,123 whilst in full-time third level education. These compare very favourably with the starting pay with other areas of the public service.

Arising from the completion of another early action of the Commission on the Defence Forces Report endorsing the commitment in the Programme for Government, I have recently secured agreement on the provision of secondary private medical care to all members of the Permanent Defence Force a facility only available to Officers up to now. This is in addition to the comprehensive primary medical and dental care available to all personnel.

My immediate focus is on stabilising the numbers of personnel in the Defence Forces and thereafter increasing strength to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.

Cormac Devlin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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25. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence how salaries and remuneration for members of the Defence Forces compares with those in service in the United Kingdom and EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22685/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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It is difficult to make a definitive comparison on Defence Forces salaries and remuneration internationally. There is ultimately no ‘one size fits all’ global or regional benchmark for this individual category of expenditure. It is important to note, however, that the biggest constituent element of Irish defence expenditure, consistently, is personnel spend, incorporating both pay and pensions.

There is an ongoing perception that pay for Defence Forces personnel is amongst the lowest in terms of overall public service pay and therefore the Government is open to criticism, on a continual basis, for failing to address the pay and conditions of serving members. Remuneration for individual members of the Permanent Defence Force is dependent on a range of factors relating to the role and duties they perform. The minimum for trained personnel is comprised of Basic Pay and Military Service Allowance (MSA), with a starting salary of €37,147.

With its approval of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, this Government has committed to a range of actions to address pay and recruitment issues in the Defence Forces. These include a number of projects undertaken to bolster the attractiveness of a military career, and cover a range of measures which will improve pay and conditions.

It is also worth noting in this regard that the Report observed that much of the commentary surrounding issues of pay in the Defence Forces does not seem to fully reflect the totality of the remuneration package and believes that this needs to be better communicated, particularly so in the context of various allowances that are payable

The commission further stated that it was satisfied, in broad terms, that levels of average turnover are not out of line with other military organisations internationally.

A departmental infographic illustrates benefits, including a minimum of €15,000 tax free in allowances for overseas duty of six months, medical, physiotherapy, pharmacy and dental care, and a public service pension, and is available at the following link:

Current Competitions - Defence Forces (military.ie)

Following the most recent pay increases, of 2% on 1st March 2023, Recruits on completion of training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), start at:

€37,147 in Year 1 – equating to €712 per week in Year 1

€38,544 in Year 2

€39,832 in Year 3

A school leaver Cadet on commissioning is paid €41,123. This is a second lieutenant position. After 2 years they are promoted to lieutenant and their pay rises to €46,406. Where a graduate joins – the pay rate on commissioning begins at €46,406.

These rates all include pensionable military service allowance.

This is an allowance that is paid for the unpredictable nature of the work encountered by the Defence Forces.

Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance)
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26. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on remarks made recently by a Lieutenant Colonel (details supplied) in the Irish Defence Forces regarding recruitment and retention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22023/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I have previously acknowledged the current staffing difficulties in the Defence Forces. There is no question that the government is attempting to recruit its way out of the situation as suggested in the press article referred to.

Whilst general service recruitment, targeted service specific recruitment and direct entry recruitment continue, as well as re-entry schemes, these are complemented by a range of other measures to counter current staffing challenges.

These include service commitment schemes in the Air Corps and Naval Service, and the sea-going naval personnel tax credit. I also recently secured agreement to further extend the service of post-94 Privates and Corporals, similar to the interim arrangement agreed previously for Sergeants. This allows for their continuance in service to the end of 2024.

There has been significant progress on pay as a result of increases arising from the Public Service Pay Commission report, from recent pay agreements and from the early implementation of some of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces. Current pay rates including Military Service Allowances for recruits on completion of their training, start at €37,147in Year 1, rising to €38,544in Year 2, and €39,832in Year 3 of service. A graduate cadet on commissioning starts on a payscale, which includes Military Service Allowance that ranges from €46,406to €54,696depending on the type of appointment. A school leaver cadet starts at €41,123whilst in full-time third level education. These compare very favourably with the starting pay with other areas of the public service.

Progress has also been made on the implementation of other recommendations of the Commission on Defence Forces report. An example is the recommendation endorsing the commitment in the Programme for Government on private healthcare for Defence Forces personnel. I have recently secured agreement on this, and all personnel can now avail of private secondary medical care, a facility only available to Officers up to this point. This is in addition to the comprehensive primary medical and dental care available to all personnel.

On the Working Time Directive, consultation with the Representative Associations is continuing. I have directed that a final management position on the implementation of the Directive is to be submitted to me for my consideration and approval in the coming weeks. Thereafter, my Department will be engaging formally with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment who will take forward the appropriate legislative framework.

To drive necessary culture change throughout the Defence Forces, as the Deputy will be aware, the Government has agreed to progress, as a priority, the recently published Independent Review Group’s recommendations. I intend to bring forward Terms of Reference for the recommendation to establish a Statutory Inquiry as soon as possible.

Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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28. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence to set out in detail the total number of residential units which are currently being built or existing property being renovated in order to accommodate members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21030/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The following accommodation projects at a combined cost of some €37m are being progressed during 2023/2024 :

• Collins Barracks, New Accommodation Block
• Upgrade of Former USAC Building, Renmore
• Refurbishment of Block 4 Haulbowline
• Refurbishment of Block 1, Collins Barracks
• Refurbishment of Stephens Block C, Kilkenny
• Gormanston Camp - New Accommodation Block

Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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29. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence how he is providing for a service extension for post 1 January 1994 sergeants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22882/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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In December 2021, the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform agreed to allow the extension in service limits for Privates and Corporals, who were recruited to the Permanent Defence Force since 1 January 1994, to allow them to remain in service up to 50 years of age, subject to them meeting certain criteria including medical and fitness standards.

An interim arrangement was secured with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform in October 2022, allowing for the retention in service to the end of 2024, of post 1 January 1994 Sergeants, who would otherwise be retired on age grounds, this year and next.

In addition, I have further recently secured sanction from my colleague the Minister of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform to further extend this arrangement for post-94 Privates and Corporals, who would otherwise be retired on age grounds, to remain in service up to end of 2024.

Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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30. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will elaborate on his recent remarks regarding the Triple Lock and Irish peacekeeping missions; his views on whether Ireland’s Triple Lock should be changed; if he would hope to change it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20677/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The so-called “Triple Lock” mechanism, which sets out the requirements for the deployment of the Defence Forces for peacekeeping operations overseas, is set down in legislation, in particular the Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1960 and the Defence (Amendment) Act 2006, as amended.

The legislation provides that:

* the operation must be mandated by the United Nations;

* it must be approved by the Government; and

* it must be approved by way of a resolution of Dáil Éireann

Any modification to the triple lock requirements for peacekeeping operations overseas, where the Irish Government can deploy Defence Force personnel, would require a change in primary legislation to remove the requirement for the operation to be mandated by the United Nations.

While there are no immediate plans to change the triple lock requirements, my Department has recently commenced work on a Strategic Defence Review, which will provide an opportunity to review all aspects of defence policy, including the conditions under which Defence Forces' personnel are deployed overseas.

It is likely that the Consultative Forum on International Security, to take place at the end of June, will also consider the issue of the triple lock, as part of its consideration of a wide range of foreign and defence policy issues. Members of the public and other stakeholders will have their opportunity to contribute to that consideration.

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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31. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on his attendance at the PDFORRA conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22688/23]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I was delighted to be given the opportunity to attend and speak at PDFORRA's Annual Delegate Conference (ADC) on 9 May 2023, in Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim, Co. Meath.

It was a Conference that was tinged with great sadness. I spoke to delegates about the risk that comes with the important service that the Defence Forces provide and how this risk became a tragic reality last December when eight personnel from the 121st Battalion were involved in an incident resulting in the tragic death of Private Seán Rooney and injuries being sustained by three other members of our Defence Forces.

At this conference I had the opportunity to address delegates on a number of key issues facing the Defence Forces, and acknowledged the range of improvements made over the last year with regard to pay and conditions.

I announced the delivery of a Programme for Government commitment and Commission on Defence Forces recommendation on the extension of healthcare provision for enlisted personnel. Agreement has been reached, in principle, to allow all enlisted members of the Defence Forces to benefit from the same access to private secondary health care as officers, thanks to the cooperation and assistance of my colleague Minister Donohoe, and the officials from my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform. I informed delegates that details of how this will be implemented are now being considered, with a view to introducing it as soon as possible.

This commitment will be of immense benefit to the ranks represented by PDFORRA, who will be able to avail of referrals to private hospitals and consultants, as deemed clinically necessary by an examining Medical Officer, in line with the treatment for Officers.

I further spoke of the interim arrangement that was secured with the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, last October, allowing for the retention in service, to the end of 2024, of post 1 January 1994 Sergeants, who would otherwise be retired on age grounds this year and next. In this regard I was pleased to announce that my Department has recently secured sanction to extend this arrangement from Sergeants to Privates and Corporals, until the end of 2024.

In my speech at the PDFORRA ADC, I also referred to the recent Independent Review Group (IRG) report on Dignity and Equality issues in the Defence Forces, and issues around recruitment, retention, and mandatory retirement ages.

In conclusion Deputy, I look forward to further continued constructive engagement with the Defence Forces Representative Associations. I will continue to engage with the Representative Associations on all matters that fall within the scope of their representation.