Jim O'Keeffe
Question:27 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence whether Irish troops serving overseas on UN missions receive the same remuneration as other UN troops, and if not, the reason therefor.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - UN Troops' Remuneration.
The remuneration including overseas allowance payable by my Department to members of the Permanent Defence Force on UN peace-keeping missions is based on the recommendations of the independent Commission on Remuneration and Conditions of Service in the Defence Forces. The Commission received submissions form three military teams — representative of privates, non-commissioned officers and officers — all of which advocated increased allowances calculated by reference to rates of home pay. In the event, the Commission recommended a 25 per cent increase in the rates of overseas allowance payable to all personnel serving in Lebanon. The current rates of overseas allowance for a six month tour of duty in Lebanon range from about £4,000 for a private to about £5,650 for a commandant. The allowances are tax-free.
In addition to home pay and overseas allowance, personnel from all countries participating in a particular UN mission receive the same rate of subsistence allowance from the UN.
Can the Minister indicate how Irish Army rates of pay, in the case of personnel serving with the United Nations overseas, compare with those of other nationalities?
I could obtain that information for the Deputy. I think they compare favourably with most other countries.
I should like to have that information.