Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Significant progress that has been made, in terms of the pay for Defence Force personnel, particularly over the last five (5) years.

For context, in May 2019 a newly qualified three-star private could have expected to earn €27,759 gross per annum (including military service allowance but excluding duty allowances), on completion of his/her initial training.

Following the implementation of a number of pay related Commission on Defence Forces recommendations, coupled with ongoing pay increases being applied as part of national pay agreements, at present recruit pay, on completion of training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), will start at:

• €41,465 in Year 1 -
• €42,875 in Year 2 and
• €44,176 in Year 3

Thus, the starting pay for a Private Three Star, since 2019, has risen by €13,706 which is a 49% increase.

Equally, for the Officer cohort, a school leaver Cadet, on commissioning, was paid €30,884 in 2019. As of 01 March 2025 a school leaver Cadet, again on commissioning, is now paid €45,341, which is a second lieutenant position.

As such, in the last 5 years a cadet's pay, on commissioning, has increased by €14,457 in 5 years, or by 49%. Furthermore, after 2 years they are promoted to lieutenant and their pay rises to €50,677.

Where a graduate joins – the pay rate on commissioning begins at €50,677. These rates all include pensionable military service allowance, which is an allowance that is paid to all ranks up to and including the rank of Colonel, for the unpredictable nature of the work encountered by the Defence Forces.

In the conversation surrounding the pay and conditions of members of the Defence Forces, it is important to point out that in addition to basic pay and military service allowance, certain positions in the Defence Forces also attract specialist and technical pay. Additionally there is scope for further income from duty allowances for specific duties carried, out on an ongoing basis, as well as the possibility of earning a tax-free duty allowance, starting at €15,000, for a 6 month overseas deployment.

The Deputy may also be aware of the changes to Patrol Duty Allowance for Naval Service personnel which can into effect on 1 January 2024. This measure will result in the Patrol Duty Allowance being doubled, after ten days at sea. This particular measure will provide greater clarity on the overall incentive package available to members of, and potential recruits to, the Naval Service.

As outlined positive progress has been made on pay and conditions in the Defence Forces. There is a significant increase in interest in joining the Defence Forces over the last two years. We will continue to ensure that Defence Forces remains an employer of choice.