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Ministerial Representations.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 December 2004

Wednesday, 15 December 2004

Questions (283)

Billy Timmins

Question:

297 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence the number of representations made to him on behalf of PDFORRA, from 2002, by Members of the Oireachtas; if he made any such representations during the period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33840/04]

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Written answers

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, a significant number of representations are made each year by Members of the Oireachtas to Ministers and Ministers of State. Oireachtas Members do not always specify on whose behalf they are making representations and, therefore, I am not in a position to state categorically exactly how many representations have been received since 2002 on behalf of PDFORRA. As Minister for Defence, I have not made any such representations.

I was, however, very concerned to learn that PDFORRA has recently decided to embark on a course of lobbying public representatives on the issue of the terms of enlistment of soldiers recruited since 1 January 1994. In this regard, in the past ten days alone, I have received more than 30 representations from Oireachtas Members on behalf of PDFORRA. This issue is already being dealt with under the formal machinery in place for dealing with such matters and embarking on such a campaign is in breach of the terms of the conciliation and arbitration scheme. I am of the view that such actions will do nothing to advance the consideration of any matter.

PDFORRA is well aware of the various fora available to it to progress any issues which are of concern to its members and which come within the system of representation. I would urge it to think carefully about the consequences of breaching the terms of the conciliation and arbitration scheme. I also point out that I have confirmed to the association that I will meet with its officers personally to listen to their view.

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