Wednesday, 21 Nov 2018

Written Answers Nos. 1-99

Defence Forces Deployment

Questions (64, 65)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

64. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans for the reinstatement of troops in the Border counties in view of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48210/18]

Niamh Smyth

Question:

65. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to reintroduce a new Army barracks or Defence Forces base in counties Cavan and Monaghan or the greater Border region in view of Brexit and the possible reintroduction of a hard Border; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48211/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 65 together.

As part of a whole of Government approach, my Department is engaged in forward planning with the other Departments involved in addressing all issues relevant to the UK's decision to leave the European Union. This engagement involves the identification of key strategic, operational and policy issues arising from Brexit.

As I have said in response to this question in the past, the UK's decision to leave the EU does not of itself give rise to additional border control requirements and accordingly there is no reason to revisit previous decisions on the location of military installations across the country, including in the border region. The avoidance of a hard border on the island is fundamental to the draft Brexit agreement reached last week between the EU and the UK government. As such, there are no plans to reintroduce a new Army barracks or Defence Forces base in counties Cavan and Monaghan or the greater Border region.

Furthermore, and as I have also outlined previously in this regard, it is important to note that primary responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Minister for Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána. Accordingly, responsibility for the security aspect of border control rests with An Garda Síochána, while the Revenue Commissioners also have responsibilities relating to their particular mandate.

Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power which, in practice, means to provide assistance and support to An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. The Defence Forces also provide support to the Revenue Commissioners, again, when requested to do so.

There is ongoing close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters and regular coordination and liaison meetings take place. My Department will of course continue to monitor the ongoing situation to ensure that both it and the Defence Forces are fully prepared to address any potential issues that might arise in the defence area as a consequence of Brexit.

Questions Nos. 66 to 68, inclusive, answered orally.

Defence Forces Medical Services

Questions (69)

Mick Wallace

Question:

69. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of efforts to recruit a psychiatrist to the Defence Forces medical corps; if he is satisfied that Defence Forces members receive adequate mental health supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48213/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

A review of the Defence Forces psychiatric service recommended the employment of a full time military psychiatrist. The previous incumbent providing these services to the Defence Forces on contract retired in May 2018 while arrangements were being made to implement this recommendation.

In the intervening period, patients presenting to Defence Forces Primary Carers (Medical Officers or contracted civilian GPs) with a requirement for urgent psychiatric assessment are referred to HSE A&E Departments. Here they are assessed by the duty on-call psychiatric staff who triage referrals and these patients will either be admitted for in-patient care or referred onward to HSE outpatient psychiatric services where appropriate.

To continue to provide an interim in-house service until such time as the military psychiatrist position could be filled, efforts were made to engage a locum psychiatrist. However, this proved to be unsuccessful.

Subsequently, it was agreed to launch a procurement process to contract a third-party private service provider for psychiatric services as a bridging arrangement pending the appointment of a locum or full time psychiatrist.

In addition, a direct entrant competition for the position of military psychiatrist was launched on 26th July 2018 and closed on 30th September 2018. No applications were received for this competition and further options are now under consideration as to how to proceed.

It must be stressed that there is no delay in referring patients requiring immediate psychiatric care or assessment. When presenting to HSE A & E Departments, those requiring hospitalisation are immediately admitted. For non-urgent outpatient cases the waiting time is approximately 3 months. In order to provide Defence Forces Primary Carers with the broadest range of options possible in dealing with the spectrum of cases that present to them, they have also been authorised to refer cases to local external private psychiatrists for outpatient treatment where deemed appropriate.

With regard to mental health supports generally, I can assure the Deputy that the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a high priority for me. Mental health services are part of a range of medical and non-medical services provided to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are medically fit to undertake the duties assigned to them.

In addition to the clinical supports I have already outlined, non-medical mental health services are provided by the Personnel Support Service (PSS). The PSS makes confidential services, including critical incident stress management, and psychosocial support available to all Defence Forces personnel through its network of Barrack Personnel Support Service Officers and occupational social workers at formation, unit and barrack level.

The PSS also supports contingents before, during and after overseas deployments and its trained personnel are deployed in response to any significant operational incidents at home or overseas. The service is also available to the families of serving personnel.

As additional support, my Department has arranged the provision of a confidential counselling, referral and support service, on a wide range of personal and work related issues, for serving members of the Defence Forces, civilian employees and Civil Defence members. A Freephone confidential helpline is available on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year and is staffed by fully-trained and experienced counsellors.

While I am satisfied that the available medical services offer comprehensive supports to Defence Forces members, I can assure the Deputy that they are kept under constant review.

Defence Forces Expenditure

Questions (70)

Bríd Smith

Question:

70. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the amount of the budget in 2018 which will be taken by additional costs associated with PESCO related activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48393/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

Ireland joined Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in December, 2017 following Government and Dáil approval. As part of our participation in PESCO, Ireland has committed to regularly increase our defence budgets in real terms. It should be noted that regularly does not mean annually but rather over the medium term. The allocations for defence announced in the budget for 2019 mean that Ireland’s defence expenditure will increase in real terms over the coming three years.

Joining PESCO does not involve an additional cost to the Exchequer. Additional costs may arise in respect of participation in specific PESCO projects similar to the case where the Defence Forces participate in European Defence Agency Projects. The projects where Ireland has confirmed our participation relate to the ongoing development of Defence Forces capabilities for peace support and crisis management operations. Costs associated with participation on these projects would be incurred in the normal course and will therefore be met from within the Defence Vote

As a participant in PESCO, Ireland is required to participate in one PESCO project. As identified in the Council Decision of 6th March establishing the first list of PESCO projects, I have confirmed Ireland's participation in two PESCO projects - (1) The European Union Training Mission Competence Centre and (2) Upgrade of Maritime Surveillance. Ireland also confirmed Observer status on 8 first round PESCO projects.

In relation to the second round of PESCO projects agreed this week at the Foreign Affairs Council, Ireland, while not committing to participating in any further projects, did confirm interest as Observer in the following 3 projects :

- Project EU Radio Navigation Solutions (EURAS)

- Counter Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS)

- European UAS Competence, Education and Training Centre

At this stage, there have been no additional costs associated with PESCO related activities in 2018 other than costs associated with attendance by Defence Forces Subject Matter Experts at PESCO project planning meetings. This may change as capabilities are developed through the PESCO projects. However, it is expected that sharing the costs of capability development across a number of member States should prove cost neutral in terms of overall projected defence expenditure.

Question No. 71 answered with Question No. 68.

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (72)

Clare Daly

Question:

72. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of occasions each month in 2018 that Defence Forces personnel were involved in aid to civil power duties at Shannon Airport; the number involved; and the cost of same. [47822/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. On each occasion that the support of the Defence Forces is required, including at Shannon Airport, An Garda Síochána issues a form C70 to the Defence Forces to request their assistance.

The number of occasions that Defence Forces personnel were involved in aid to civil power duties at Shannon Airport from 1 January 2018 to 14 November 2018, by month; the number of deployments involved; and the cost of same are set out in the following tabular statement:

MONTH	DEPLOYMENTS	COST
JANUARY	13	€15,187.67
FEBRUARY	16	€13,767.80
MARCH	24	€15,316.59
APRIL	29	€14,890.18
MAY	21	€15,281.43
JUNE	47	€15,101.14
JULY	18	€15,246.27
AUGUST	45	€15,562.71
SEPTEMBER	27	€14,866.74
OCTOBER	19	€15,257.99
NOVEMBER (up to 14 Nov)	11	€14,679.22

For security reasons it would not be appropriate to disclose the details regarding the number of personnel assigned to each deployment.

I am satisfied that there is ongoing and close liaison between both An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, and between my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality regarding security matters generally, including the Defence Forces ATCP roles.

Questions Nos. 73 and 74 answered with Question No. 67.

Military Aircraft Landings

Questions (75)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

75. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the cost to date in 2018 to the Defence Forces of all foreign military aircraft landings here by location and number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48212/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The only costs accrued to the Defence Forces in relation to foreign military aircraft landings are when they assist An Garda Síochána in their Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) role in Shannon Airport. Since 5 February 2003, the Gardaí have requested support from the Defence Forces at Shannon Airport on occasion. The cost of the presence of Defence Forces at Shannon Airport performing ATCP duties with regard to all military aircraft landing at Shannon Airport in 2018, up to 14 November 2018, is €165,157.74 for 270 deployments. For security reasons it would not be appropriate to disclose the details regarding the number of personnel assigned to each deployment.

These costs relate to security duty allowance paid to members of the Defence Forces, rations and fuel. The cost of ATCP operations are met entirely from the Defence Vote.

I am satisfied that there is ongoing and close liaison between both An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces, and between my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality regarding security matters generally, including the Defence Forces ATCP roles.

Defence Forces Remuneration

Questions (76, 77, 78, 86, 92, 98, 99)

Brian Stanley

Question:

76. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his Department, in conjunction with the command structure within the Defence Forces, has reached a decision on improving the special allowances paid to soldiers. [48209/18]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

77. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which pay and conditions for the Defence Forces continue to receive appropriate attention with particular reference to ongoing concerns in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48350/18]

Brian Stanley

Question:

78. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the progress made in addressing the low pay rates for lower ranked members of the Defence Forces. [48208/18]

Bobby Aylward

Question:

86. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the steps being taken to ensure better pay and working conditions for members of the Defence Forces; the steps being taken to ensure appropriate supports are available to both current and former members of the Defence Forces who may be experiencing financial difficulties; if he is satisfied that recruitment methods are sufficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48216/18]

Clare Daly

Question:

92. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the initiatives he has suggested to improve Defence Forces pay and conditions. [47824/18]

Brendan Ryan

Question:

98. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if allowances and payments will be restored to Defence Forces personnel in line with the restoration of allowances to other public sector workers; if so, if the allowances will be restored prior to Christmas to alleviate financial distress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48437/18]

Bernard Durkan

Question:

99. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which issues relating to pay and conditions within the Defence Forces have been resolved or are under review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48627/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 to 78, inclusive, 86, 92, 98 and 99 together.

Similar to other sectors in the public service, the pay of Permanent Defence Force personnel was reduced as one of the measures to assist in stabilising national finances during the financial crisis.

The recovery in the economy has provided the fiscal resources to provide for a fair and sustainable recovery in public service pay scales.

Pay is being restored to members of the Defence Forces and other public servants in accordance with public sector pay agreements. The focus of these increases is weighted in favour of those on lower pay.

Members of the Permanent Defence Force have received the pay increases due under the Lansdowne Road Agreement. In addition in 2017, following negotiations with PDFORRA, improved pay scales for general service recruits and privates, who joined the Permanent Defence Force post 1 January 2013, were implemented.

In 2016, the Government established the Public Service Pay Commission to provide objective advice to Government in relation to Public Service pay policy. Following the publication of the Public Service Pay Commission report in May 2017, the Government initiated negotiations on an extension to the Lansdowne Road Agreement.

The Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 provides for increases in pay ranging from 6.2% to 7.4% over the lifetime of the Agreement. The focus of these increases is weighted in favour of those on lower pay. The increases due from 1 January 2018 and 1 October 2018 have been paid to Permanent Defence Force personnel. Further increases in pay are scheduled for 2019 and 2020.

By the end of the current Public Service Pay agreement the pay of all public servants (including members of the Defence Forces), earning under €70,000 per annum, will be restored to pre FEMPI levels. The restoration of the 5% reduction to allowances cut under FEMPI is also scheduled in the agreement

New entrants who joined the Defence Forces since 2011, will also benefit from the measures which were recently announced in relation to interventions at points 4 and 8 of the relevant pay scales for all such new entrants to the public service. This measure, should it be accepted by the Permanent Defence Force Representative Associations, will be effective from 1 March 2019.

There are many factors and personal circumstances which can give rise to an individual needing support and advice in respect of particular financial difficulties. The Personnel Support Service provides a confidential information, education, support and referral service to Defence Forces personnel and their families, giving access to information and services within and outside the military community.

In accordance with the provisions of Public Services Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the Government has tasked the Public Service Pay Commission with conducting a more comprehensive examination of the specific recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces, which the Commission identified in Chapter 6 of its report in May 2017.

The Department of Defence and military management have collated and prepared the data requested. An initial tranche of material relating to Air Corps pilots was submitted earlier this year. Further material relating to the broader Defence sector has been sent to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform who are co-ordinating the response on behalf of the Public Service Pay Commission.

The Commission's work is on-going. The Government will give due consideration to the findings and recommendations that arise from the work of the Commission.

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (79)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

79. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on the recent statement by Chancellor Merkel in relation to the establishment of an EU army; and the steps he will take to ensure Irish neutrality is protected. [48346/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

As stated in the Lisbon Treaty protocols, the Lisbon Treaty does not provide for the creation of an EU Army. There is no legal basis for the establishment of an EU army, and there is no proposal set out to change this.

Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security is a national competence and that any decisions, including any deepening of EU cooperation, require unanimity. Ireland continues to have a strong and equal voice on defence issues within the EU institutions.

Any decision to further deepen EU cooperation in the area of security and defence with a move to a common defence would require a unanimous decision of the European Council. In addition, any decision by Ireland to participate in any such Common Defence would require the approval of the people in a referendum. Ireland remains constitutionally debarred from participation in any such EU common defence given our Constitutional provisions and the Lisbon Treaty protocols.

At a time when the world has become a more unstable and insecure place, Ireland remains fully supportive of the efforts of EU member States, within the Treaty provisions, to improve the Union's capacity to respond to the challenging security environment, including in the area of defence.

These efforts are been advanced through the implementation of the EU Global Strategy of Foreign Policy and Security, the Commissions European Defence Action Plan and through enhanced cooperation with international partners.

Ireland's approach to all of these areas will as always be both constructive and realistic and we remain strong supporters of initiatives which improve the capacity of the EU to contribute to international peace and security, particularly in support of the UN and to delivering the necessary capabilities, both civil and military in this regard.

While we choose to remain neutral, this is not out of any lack of interest in issues underpinning conflicts or any isolationist stance. Ireland’s approach to international relations is founded on full and active engagement in the international community in support of international peace and security and the rule of law. We follow and will continue to follow this policy approach - militarily neutral but fully engaged – because, as committed members of the United Nations, we subscribe fully to the principles set out in the UN Charter.

Ministerial Meetings

Questions (80, 89)

Jack Chambers

Question:

80. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the engagement he has had with a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48381/18]

Bríd Smith

Question:

89. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he or his officials have met with representatives of a group (details supplied); the progress he has made in addressing the issues it has raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48390/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 89 together.

I have not met with any group as described by the Deputies. I did however meet with two individuals in relation to the matters raised.

As I have clearly stated to this House, the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces are a priority for me.

In this regard, there are a number of processes already in train relating to reviewing health and safety procedures in the Air Corps. Firstly, in September 2016, I appointed an independent third party to review allegations made in a number of protected disclosures relating to health and safety issues in the Air Corps which were received in late 2015 and early 2016. The report of the independent third party review was received by my Department in June 2017. Although the report found that the Defence Force's regime appears to be capable of meeting statutory requirements, it makes a number of observations including in relation to documentation, health surveillance, and exposure monitoring. It also notes that the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the appropriate statutory body to deal with such matters. I sent the report to those who had made disclosures for their views and I am considering the next steps in the process having received those views and in the context of ongoing litigation.

Separately, and in parallel to the independent review, following an inspection in 2016, the Air Corps has continued to work with the HSA to improve its health and safety regime. I have been informed by the military authorities that the HSA has formally noted the considerable progress made to-date by the Defence Forces towards implementation of a safety management system for the control of hazardous substances. Subject to completion of the improvement plan, the HSA investigation is closed. However, it must be noted that Air Corps health and safety is a matter of ongoing monitoring, supervision and adjustment. The Air Corps is fully committed to implementing improved safety measures that protect workers from potential exposures to chemicals and will ensure risks are as low as reasonably practicable.

As litigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.

Question No. 81 answered with Question No. 66.

Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 68.

Defence Forces Personnel Data

Questions (83)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

83. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of medical staff in the Defence Forces by occupation in each of the years 2015 to 2017 and to date in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47798/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I wish to state at the outset that the health and wellbeing of our Defence Forces is of the highest priority for me. The provision of a comprehensive range of medical services to ensure this is an issue to which the highest importance is attached, both in the Defence Forces and in my Department.

There are currently 4 Dental Officers, 5 Pharmacists, 1 Clinical Psychologist and 6 Nurses employed by the Defence Forces. These numbers have not changed across the period in question. An additional civilian Clinical Psychologist is currently engaged on a contract basis. There are currently 24 Medical Officers, which includes 4 Officers undertaking the Military Medicine Training Scheme. This number is up from 20 in 2015 and 2016, and 21 in 2017.

The medical services that are provided are constantly under review to ensure that they are of the highest standard and delivered in the most efficient way possible.

Defence Forces Personnel

Questions (84)

Clare Daly

Question:

84. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that there are adequate measures to protect female members of the Defence Forces from discrimination, particularly when they have children. [47821/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The Defence Forces are committed to gender equality and employ a gender perspective in all policies and regulations. The Defence Forces Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan promotes diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities for all members of the Organisation.

Unlike some military organisations, the Defence Forces have no restrictions with regard to the assignment of men or women to the full range of professional and administrative duties. Women, therefore, play a full and meaningful role in all aspects of Defence operations at home and overseas.

Female members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) are entitled to the same protected Maternity Leave and Adoptive Leave as applies to all other public servants. The Defence Forces Maternity Policy (2015) also provides for supports on return to the workplace when maternity leave is complete. Other supports in place include:-

- The Defence Forces have initiated a range of family-friendly policies with a focus on improving the work-life balance of serving personnel.

- Personnel Support Services are available including crisis pregnancy support, post natal depression and sudden loss, miscarriage and bereavement counselling.

- Parental Leave

- Shorter Working Leave which a member may be granted leave, without pay and allowances, for the purpose of balancing their working arrangements with outside commitments including school holiday periods of their children.

The Defence Forces Dignity Charter outlines the Organisation's commitment to maintaining a work environment that encourages and supports the right to dignity at work. Bullying, sexual harassment and harassment in any form is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

Notwithstanding these proactive initiatives, I believe that there is a need to continue to develop and promote strategies over the lifespan of the White Paper that support increased female participation in the Defence Forces and guard against discrimination.

Defence Forces Properties

Questions (85, 88)

Martin Heydon

Question:

85. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of engagement between his Department and Kildare County Council regarding the challenges and potential of the Curragh Plains in the context of conservation and management of the plains and their future usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48398/18]

Martin Heydon

Question:

88. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the actions he has taken following the publication of a vision document prepared for Kildare County Council on the future potential of the Curragh Plains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48397/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 88 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department met with Kildare County Council in September to discuss both the challenges facing the Department in the management of the Curragh Plains and their vision paper relating to the future of the Plains.

I am advised that one of the key outcomes from the meeting was the need to develop a joint approach where possible.

Following on from this meeting, an application supported by the Department of Defence was made by Kildare County Council for funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. I am advised that the outcome of this application is awaited.

The proposal submitted to my colleague, Mr. Michael Ring T.D., Minister for Rural and Community Development, seeks funding to appoint a multidisciplinary consultancy team in order to examine the current and future challenges arising for the Curragh Plains, in the context of the conservation and management of the Plains, and to explore the potential for branding and development of the Plains as a high value visitor and cultural amenity attraction.

With regard to the ongoing conservation and management of the Curragh Plains, the recruitment by my Department’s Property Management Branch of additional Curragh Plains land management staff to support the work of the Curragh Maor is expected to be completed shortly. These additional resources will share in the task of overseeing activities on the ground including, but not limited to, litter, sheep branding, patrolling, monitoring users of lands, inspection of property boundaries, illegal encampments and engagement with the public.

Finally, the Deputy may wish to note that the upcoming Curragh Plains environmental maintenance tender competition is due to go to tender early in the new year.

Question No. 86 answered with Question No. 76.

Naval Service Staff

Questions (87)

Clare Daly

Question:

87. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that there are sufficient trained personnel at each rank and skill set in order to ensure that the Naval Service core objective of coastal protection is sufficiently carried out. [47823/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

As the Deputy will be aware, the Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. While the main day to day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union it also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks.

I want to pay tribute to the significant security role which the Naval Service routinely carries out. By its nature, often that security role goes unrecognised or unacknowledged, but it is vital to Ireland's national priorities and interests.

In relation to its sea-fishery protection role, the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 established the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) as the competent Authority for securing efficient and effective enforcement of sea fisheries protection legislation and the sustainable exploitation of marine fish resources from the waters around Ireland.

A Service Level Agreement is in place which underpins the relationship between the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the Defence Organisation. This Agreement provides for the development of an Annual Control Plan and for agreed reporting and training arrangements. The agreement also provides a forum for sharing information between parties and for dealing with fisheries' control and enforcement issues.

In accordance with this Agreement, the 2018 Annual Control Plan states a target range of between 1,090 and 1,267 patrol days. The lower figure reflects a Naval Service presence in the Mediterranean with the upper figure in place in instances if a Naval Service vessel does not deploy to the Mediterranean.

The Naval Service has an establishment of 1,094 personnel with a current strength at approximately 92%. The breakdown by rank is set out in the following table.

Rank	Establishment	Strength as at 31 October
Commodore	1	1
Captain	2	2
Commander	13	14
Lt. Commander	45	52
Lieutenant	81	44
Sub Lieutenant	41	52
Warrant Officer	6	6
Senior Chief Petty Officer	7	7
Chief Petty Officer	75	70
Senior Petty Officer	15	11
Petty Officer	226	158
Leading Seaman	180	139
Seaman	402	415
Total	1094	971

I am advised that the Naval Service has a comprehensive in house system of training across all ranks, delivered through the Naval College. This is supplemented in relation to the training of apprentices and Marine Engineers as required through other academic institutions. This holistic approach to training ensures that personnel have the necessary skill set to deliver the broad range of services that the Naval Service provides to the State and internationally as required.

Question No. 88 answered with Question No. 85.

Question No. 89 answered with Question No. 80.

Defence Forces

Questions (90)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

90. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the date the joint submission to the Public Service Pay Commission was completed; the timeframe for the publication of the submission; and if all the matters raised by military management were included in the submission. [48348/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 provides that the Public Service Pay Commission will conduct a comprehensive examination and analysis of underlying difficulties in recruitment and retention in those sectors and employment streams identified in the Commission's Report of May 2017.

The Commission's approach to Phase 2 of its work can be found on its website, which includes the terms of reference for this phase. The Commission has adopted a modular approach to this phase of its work. The Commission has focused on specific areas in the Health Sector in the first module and recently produced a report on nurses and midwives, non-consultant hospital doctors and hospital consultants.

Module 2 provides that the Commission will report on those other grades/specialities where evidence of recruitment and/or retention difficulties were found to exist in Chapter 6 of the Report which the Commission published in May 2017. This includes specific challenges in the Defence sector.

In order to assist the Commission in their analysis, the Department of Defence was requested, earlier this year, to provide specific data. A civil and military team was tasked with collating this material. An initial tranche of material was forwarded to the Commission, through the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, earlier this year. This material focused on pilots in the Air Corps.

Further material in relation to the broader Defence sector has been forwarded to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The material which has been forwarded is the specific data that was requested to assist the Commission in their work. As outlined on the Commission's website, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform are coordinating data requested on behalf of Public Service Employers.

Due consideration will be given to the findings and recommendations that arise from the work of the Commission, when this is completed. The publication of material submitted is a matter for the Public Service Pay Commission.

Defence Forces Expenditure

Questions (91)

Bríd Smith

Question:

91. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the way in which the increase in the budget for his Department will be allocated; if this increase will deal with the working conditions and poor pay of members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48392/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The total allocation for the Defence Sector in 2019 is €994 million, an increase of €47.5 million on the 2018 provision. This allocation emphasises the importance attached by the Government to ensuring that the Defence Forces have the capabilities necessary to deliver on all the roles assigned by Government.

The Defence Vote has been increased by €37.5 million to €745 million. Capital funding has been increased to €106 million for 2019, an increase of €29 million. This level of capital funding will allow the Defence Organisation to undertake a programme of sustained equipment replacement and infrastructural development across the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as identified and prioritised in the Defence White Paper.

The 2019 pay allocation of €515.6 m has increased by €6.3 million to meet the costs of Public Sector Stability Agreement 2018-2020 commitments arising in 2019. An additional €2.2 million has been provided to meet essential and ongoing Defence Forces standing and operational costs such as utilities, fuel, catering, maintenance, information technology and training.

An additional €10 million has been allocated to meet the retirement costs of ex members of the Permanent Defence Force and certain dependants, bringing the total allocation for the Army Pensions Vote for 2019 to €249 million.

Similar to other sectors in the public service, the pay of Permanent Defence Force personnel was reduced as one of the measures to assist in stabilising the national finances during the financial crisis. The recovery in the economy has provided the fiscal resources to provide for a fair and sustainable recovery in public service pay scales.

Members of the Permanent Defence Force have received pay increases due under the Lansdowne Road Agreement. In addition in 2017, following negotiations with PDFORRA improved pay scales for general service recruits and privates, who joined the Permanent Defence Force post 1 January 2013, were implemented.

The Public Sector Stability Agreement 2018-2020 provides for increases in pay ranging from 6.2% to 7.4% over the lifetime of the Agreement. The focus of these increases is weighted in favour of those on lower pay. The increases due under the Agreement from 1 January 2018 and 1 October 2018 have been paid to Permanent Defence Force personnel. Further increases in pay are scheduled in 2019 and 2020.

New entrants to the Defence Forces will also benefit from the measures which were recently announced in relation to amendments to the pay scales for new entrant public servants recruited since January 2011.

By the end of the current Public Service Pay agreement, the pay of all public servants (including members of the Defence Forces), earning under €70,000 per annum, will be restored to pre FEMPI levels. The restoration of the 5% reduction to allowances cut under FEMPI is also scheduled in the agreement.

In accordance with the provisions of Public Services Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the Government has tasked the Public Service Pay Commission with conducting a more comprehensive examination of the specific recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces, which the Commission identified in Chapter 6 of its report in May 2017. The Commission's work is on-going and my Department will continue to engage throughout the process.

Question No. 92 answered with Question No. 76.

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (93)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

93. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which participation in international peacekeeping and enforcement is anticipated in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48351/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

As of 01 November 2018, Ireland is contributing 565 personnel to 9 different missions throughout the world and also to a range of international organisations and National representations. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed is the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 347 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 138 personnel.

Full details of all personnel currently serving overseas are shown in the tabular statement beneath.

The UNIFIL mission in Lebanon continues to represent Ireland's largest overseas deployment with 347 personnel and on 22 May 2018, the Government approved the continued participation of the Defence Forces in UNIFIL for a further 12 month period.

Until recently, Irish troops served as part of a joint Irish-Finnish Battalion in UNIFIL. The Finnish contingent also included an Estonian Platoon comprising some 36 personnel. Due to other National commitments both Finland and Estonia announced earlier this year their intention to withdraw from the Irish-Finnish Battalion in UNIFIL by the end of 2018.

Efforts are on-going to source a partner country to replace the Finnish contingent but, in the interim, I have approved the additional deployment of approximately 106 Defence Forces Personnel to the UNIFIL mission to cover the backfilling of the Finnish contingent for a 12 month period. On 15 November, Ireland assumed full duties and responsibilities of IRISHBATT for the next 12 months until November 2019.

The Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas. With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis.

MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS AS OF 01 NOVEMBER 2018

UN MISSIONS
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ UNIFIL 112th Infantry Battalion UNIFIL Sector West HQ	10 329 8
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel & Syria	12
MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara)	3
MONUSCO (United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic of the Congo)	4
UNDOF (COS Staff/FHQ Staff - Camp Faouar - Bravo side) UNDOF 58th Infantry Group (Camp Faouar - Bravo side)	8 130
TOTAL	504
UN MANDATED MISSIONS
EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina)	5
EUTM Mali (EU-led Training Mission)	20
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ	12
Naval Service EU Mission (Op Sophia) Operational HQ/Floating HQ (Operation Sophia HQ - 3 in OHQ & 2 in FHQ)	5
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS	546
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND CO-OPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE)
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group, Vienna	1
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH OSCE	1
EU MILITARY STAFF
Brussels	5
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York	1
Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna	1
Military Representative to EU (Brussels)	4
Liaison Officer of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels)	2
EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium	1
Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium	3
Joint Technical Group for Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (JTGDDR) in Mozambique (part time basis)	1
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS	565

Defence Forces Representative Organisations

Questions (94)

Bríd Smith

Question:

94. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to recommend that the Defence Forces representative associations have access to the industrial relations machinery of the State, including the Workplace Relations Commission, WRC, and Labour Court; his views on whether such access will assist with the crisis in staff retention and numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48394/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) Scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) provides an established mechanism for the PDF representative associations, that is PDFORRA (the representative association for enlisted personnel) and RACO (the representative association for commissioned officers) to engage with the Official side. Having regard to commitments made under public service pay agreements, members of the PDF can make representations in relation to their pay and conditions through their representative associations.

The C&A scheme, since its inception in the early 1990’s has provided the framework to progress many successful negotiated agreements between Defence management and the PDF Representative Associations. In light of the many changes in the industrial relations landscape in the intervening period, I initiated a fundamental review of the scheme, earlier this year.

The report of the review of the scheme was published on 2 October 2018.

The report contains a number of recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency of the scheme. It did not include a recommendation relating to providing the PDF representative associations with access to the WRC and Labour Court.

The parties to the scheme are currently considering the process for implementing the recommendations in the report.

The report recommends that the revised scheme should be reviewed after a three year period. I believe that the opportunity should be afforded to the parties to implement the recommendations and evaluate the operation the scheme again after that time.

Defence Forces Expenditure

Questions (95)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Question:

95. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans for budget increases across his Department in view of the PESCO agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48408/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

With regard to defence spending, Government policy is defined within the parameters of our national budgetary process and role of Dáil Éireann. Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security is a national competence, including national spending on defence and security.

As part of Ireland's participation in Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), Ireland has committed to regularly increase our defence budgets in real terms. It should be noted that regularly does not mean annually but rather over the medium term. The allocations for defence announced in the budget for 2019 mean that Ireland’s defence expenditure will increase in real terms over the coming three years.

Joining PESCO does not involve an additional cost to the Exchequer. Additional costs may arise in respect of participation in specific PESCO projects similar to the case where the Defence Forces participate in European Defence Agency Projects. The projects where Ireland has confirmed our participation relate to the ongoing development of Defence Forces capabilities for peace support and crisis management operations. Costs associated with participation on these projects would be incurred in the normal course and will therefore be met from within the Defence Vote.

It is expected that sharing the costs of capability development across a number of member States should prove cost neutral in terms of overall projected defence expenditure.

Defence Forces Operations

Questions (96)

Bríd Smith

Question:

96. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if Ireland's participation in PESCO is a breach of Ireland's neutrality in view of recent comments by EU leaders; if the view of other EU leaders that it is a step toward an EU army is shared by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48391/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

Permanent Structured Cooperation has no implications for Ireland’s policy of military neutrality.

The establishment of PESCO represents a further development in EU Cooperation in support of international peace and security under CSDP. Under PESCO, Member States will come together in different groups to develop and make available additional capabilities and enablers for peacekeeping and crisis management operations.

Within the EU, it is accepted that defence and security is a national competence and that any decisions, including any deepening of EU cooperation, require unanimity. Ireland continues to have a strong and equal voice on defence issues within the EU institutions.

The European treaties require that the EU respects the specific and different policies of Member States in the area of security and defence and that has not been changed or compromised by our participation in PESCO. In addition, the Irish Protocols to the Lisbon Treaty specifically states that the Lisbon Treaty does not provide for the creation of a European army.

The participation criteria for PESCO expressly stipulate that PESCO will be undertaken in full compliance with the Treaty on European Union and the associated protocols and will respect the Member States constitutional provisions. It is also important to note that participation in each project is on an “opt in” basis and is therefore entirely voluntary.

Defence Forces Strength

Questions (97)

Jack Chambers

Question:

97. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the target date for the Permanent Defence Forces to reach its approved strength of 9,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48384/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

The Government remains committed to achieving the strength target of at least 9,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force, as set out in the White Paper on Defence (2015). There are a number of factors, some of which are hard to predict, which will impact on the timeframe within which this will be achieved.

Recruitment has continued in 2018 with the running of two General Service recruit competitions, a Cadet competition, apprentice competitions, instrumentalist competition and direct entry streams. This has resulted in over 600 personnel being inducted to date in 2018. The most recent figures, provided by the military authorities, give the whole time equivalent strength of the Permanent Defence Force as just below 9,000 personnel. Further inductions are scheduled in November and final figures for numbers inducted in 2018 and strength will not be available until year end. Recruitment progress will be reviewed in the coming weeks and this will inform future plans.

The Government is committed to retaining the capacity of the Defence Forces to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government both at home and overseas.

Questions Nos. 98 and 99 answered with Question No. 76.