Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 July 2017
57. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to introduce legislation to ensure employers allow members of the Reserve Defence Forces time off for training in view of the important work they do for the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32346/17]
View answerMembers of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve are volunteers who undertake training in their spare time. In order to facilitate the voluntary nature of Reserve Service, training continues to be organised both in and out of normal working hours and at weekends. Reserve training is also organised during academic and traditional holiday periods, in order to maximise attendance of Reserve personnel. The focus will continue to be on organising training that facilitates attendance by the maximum number of Reservists. However, there are no plans to introduce legislation to compel employers to allow members of the Reserve to attend training.
I am satisfied that the extensive and professional training provided to the Reserve is a major motivating factor in encouraging people to join it as well as encouraging retention of existing members.
