Máirín Quill
Question:22 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Defence whether negotiations with representative associations on aspects of the implementation plan, other than its main parameters, have commenced. [11068/96]
Written Answers. - Efficiency Audit Group Implementation Plan.
Robert Molloy
Question:24 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Defence whether negotiations with representative associations on aspects of the implementation plan, other than its main parameters, have commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11063/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 24 together.
The representative associations in the Defence Forces are being fully consulted on issues arising from the Efficiency Audit Group's review of the Defence Forces which come within their remit and scope. The EAG implementation plan, with which the military authorities are in full agreement, was approved by the Government last March. This plan is strategic in nature and sets out the parameters within which the reform of the Defence Forces will take place.
At all stages throughout this process of reform I have been at pains to ensure that the representative associations and the personnel whom they represent are kept fully informed of all developments as they happen. Participation in the process of change by the representative associations will guarantee its successful implementation. I have met representatives of both the Representative Association for Commissioned Officers and the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association on six separate occasions in the last year, both to hear their opinions and discuss with them my own views.
The Permanent Defence Force representative association have been repeatedly promised consultation on all aspects of the implementation plan and these undertakings are being honoured. Consultation and discussion have taken place and continue to take place under the auspices of the Defence Forces Conciliation Council. This is the most appropriate forum in which to deal with any issues which either side may wish to raise. I have told the associations on a number of occasions that there will be flexibility in the way the plan itself will be implemented and I stand by this statement.
Further discussions will take place at a meeting arranged for tomorrow, 30 May 1996, and it is envisaged that a conciliation report finally allaying fears in relation to enforced redundancy will be adopted in the near future.