Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 January 2019
28. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to claims that shortages of officers in the Defence Forces have resulted in bomb disposal experts and marine engineers having to work 65 and 70 hours a week, respectively, without overtime; the measures being taken to address this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1862/19]
View answerThe 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.
In this context, recruitment efforts for the Permanent Defence Force are ongoing and continue to be a priority. There were several significant recruitment initiatives throughout 2018 in the Permanent Defence Force, at both enlisted and officer level. similar recruitment is planned for 2019.
Unlike other areas of the Public Service and due to the nature of the duties performed, overtime or shift allowances are not available to members of the Defence Forces. In its place a Military Service Allowance is paid to all ranks up to the level of Colonel. Military Service Allowance is designed to compensate for the special disadvantages associated with military life. Certain duties performed by Defence Forces personnel attract other additional allowances e.g. Security Duty Allowance and EOD Duty Allowance.
For reasons of operational security, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the disposition and specifics relating to hours worked on Explosive Ordnance Disposal duties. Furthermore, as these matters are currently the subject of litigation I am similarly not in a position to comment on same.
The Government has committed to amend the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997. The Department of Defence and Military management have been working closely to progress its implementation.
