Written Answers Nos. 1-34
12. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on the review of Defence Force Regulation R5 (New Series) on the Reserve Defence Force and on the continuing vital role of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve in Óglaigh na hÉireann. [45360/19]
View answerDefence Force Regulation R5 (New Series) is the governing Regulation for the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve. My Department has been actively involved with the Military Authorities in the process of reviewing DFR R5.
Completion of amendments to DFR R5 (governing the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve) and DFR S7 (matters relating to RDFRA) are interlinked. These Regulations encompass a broad range of matters from Finance, Human Resources, promotions and training to effectiveness criteria. Amendments are complex and time consuming and have required extensive internal consultation. A revised draft of DFR R5 is currently being finalised. Draft amendments to DFR S7 are also being finalised.
I know that the Representative Association for members of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve have a particular interest in this piece of work. I anticipate that they will be invited to provide their comments on the draft amendments in the near future, as part of the normal consultative process.
The Government recognises the important role that the RDF plays in contributing to Ireland's defence capability. The White Paper on Defence is clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the RDF and it is currently on a developmental path arising from the recommendations of the White Paper.
A key ongoing challenge for the RDF is to recruit and retain personnel. I am aware that there continues to be a shortfall between the current strength figures and those of the establishment, which provides for 4,069 personnel. Recruitment is ongoing and two recruitment campaigns were organised for the AR and the NSR this year, one in March and a second having recently closed on 20th October. Supports being provided to maximise recruitment to the RDF include the use of social media and outreach activities by RDF members. PDF recruit exit interviews now contain information on applying for membership of the RDF.
Engagement will continue between my Department and the with the Reserve Defence Force Representative Association (RFDRA) on issues of interest to the members of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve.
I would like to assure the Deputy that I remain committed to the ongoing development of the RDF within the framework set out in the White Paper and having regard to resource availability. It is my intention to ensure that momentum on its development is maintained.
13. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the amount spent by the Defence Forces on Israeli-manufactured equipment and services in each of the years 2010 to 2018 and to date in 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45764/19]
View answer27. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces purchase from Israeli arms suppliers; his views on whether it is ethical to purchase weapons that have a connection to states engaged in activities in violation of international law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45090/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 27 together.
The primary focus for the procurement of defensive equipment by the Department of Defence is to maintain the capability of the Irish Defence Forces to fulfil the roles as assigned by Government. This includes undertaking overseas Peace Support Operations, and in this regard to afford the greatest possible force protection to Irish troops whilst on such missions.
The principle of competitive tendering for Government contracts is used by the Department of Defence for the acquisition of defensive equipment for the Defence Forces. Central to those procedures is the requirement to allow fair competition between suppliers through the submission of tenders following advertising of the tender competition on the e-tenders site and on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), where appropriate, in line with the EU procurement Directives, including the Defence and Security Directive.
Such tender competitions are open to any company or country in accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargoes or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargoes in place on Israeli companies.
In following these guidelines and codes, the Department of Defence must deal impartially with all companies that are entitled to enter its procurement competitions and must evaluate tenders on the basis of objective criteria.
I am advised that my Department has not purchased any weapons from Israel. However, defensive equipment has been acquired from Israeli companies by way of competitive tendering, the main procurements have been Unmanned Aerial Vehicles operated by the Defence Forces, Ground Surveillance Radar Equipment and an upgrade to the Army's existing Fire Control and Command Systems. The primary purpose of such equipment is to provide force protection for our Defence Force personnel whilst serving on overseas missions.
The value of defensive equipment procured from Israeli based firms and companies since 2010 is €14.1 million, inclusive of VAT. Details for each of the years will are as follows:
|
Year |
Expenditure, inclusive of VAT |
|
2010 |
€3,786,139.33 |
|
2011 |
€298,530.08 |
|
2012 |
€272,925.00 |
|
2013 |
€374,213.24 |
|
2014 |
€2,483,283.00 |
|
2015 |
€882,469.57 |
|
2016 |
€365,470.00 |
|
2017 |
€3,201,314.06 |
|
2018 |
€2,244,868.23 |
|
2019 |
€148,155.52 |
|
Total |
€14,057,422.03 |
The matter of barring Israeli companies from entering tender competitions for the provision of military goods would be akin to Ireland unilaterally placing an embargo on such goods from Israel and this raises, inter alia, serious implications for Irish foreign policy which are outside my remit.
Trade policy and market access are largely EU competencies and any restriction or ban on imports from any particular country would have to be concerted at EU level.
The manner in which the Department of Defence procures both goods and services remains consistent with international best practice and is in line with EU and UN decisions on trade embargoes. I am satisfied that this is the appropriate way in which to continue, rather than Ireland taking any unilateral decision to target individual companies or countries in that respect.
14. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the staffing levels of the Defence Forces; the recommended levels that should be operational; his plans to retain and recruit sufficient staff numbers in the coming period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45763/19]
View answerThe military authorities have advised that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (whole time equivalent), across all services, at 30th September 2019, was 8,654 personnel. Whilst I am very much aware that there continues to be a shortfall between the current strength figures and those of the establishment. I remain committed to restoring the strength of the Defence Forces to 9,500 personnel as provided for in the White Paper on Defence (2015).
I am also fully aware of the specific HR challenges that relate to the Defence Forces and in this regard the manpower requirement is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services. The 2019 recruitment campaign for the Defence Forces is ongoing with 528 new entrants having been inducted so far this year. The Defence Forces recruitment process is subject to continuous monitoring and appraisal to ensure that it remains fit for purpose.
The Government has acknowledged that there are recruitment and retention issues in the Defence Forces that must be addressed. It is a fact that members of the Permanent Defence Force are being attracted to jobs elsewhere in a buoyant labour market. In light of the particular difficulties being faced by the Defence Sector, the Government tasked the Public Service Pay Commission to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of recruitment and retention issues in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).
The Commission’s Report, which has been accepted by Government, contains a broad range of recommendations which will provide immediate benefits to members of the Permanent Defence Force as well as initiatives that can lead to further improvements. Arrangements are being made to process the revised rates of certain Defence Forces allowances which include:
- a 10% increase in Military Service Allowance
- the restoration to pre-Haddington Road levels of certain specific Defence Forces allowances
- the restoration of Premium Rates for certain weekend duties.
- the return of an incentive scheme to address pilot retention issues in the Air Corps.
I welcome the fact that both RACO and PDFORRA have accepted these recommendations.
The Report contains a range of recommendations aimed at improving work-force planning, recruitment and conditions of service. The Report also recommends for an examination of pay structures in the PDF and to identify further retention measures within the context of the Public Service Stability Agreement and future public sector pay negotiations.
The Government has prepared a detailed implementation plan setting out the timelines and objectives, indicating the commitment to deliver on the Pay Commission’s recommendations. Work on implementing the plan is underway and, under my direction, is being prioritised by Civil and Military Management.
I am confident that all the measures contained in the plan, coupled with pay benefits being delivered by the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the most recent being a 1.5% increase on 1st September, will address recruitment and retention challenges being experienced by the Permanent Defence Force.
However, it should be noted that as the Government's plan contains short, medium and long term measures, the full impact of these measures will take time to determine. There are also a range of external variables which impact on recruitment and retention and which can change. The capacity of the Defence Forces to undertake the tasks assigned by Government will continue to be carefully monitored having regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Pay Commission and other actions which are underway.
15. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of the deployment of the Defence Forces to Lebanon as part of UNIFIL in view of growing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah; the extent of co-operation between Defence Forces personnel and forces from other European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45771/19]
View answerThe main overseas mission in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed is the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 459 personnel.
Ireland deployed an additional contingent of approximately 106 Defence Force personnel to the UNIFIL mission following the departure of the Finnish/Estonian contingent in November 2018. This additional 12 month commitment has continued throughout 2019 to date as Ireland assumed full duties and responsibilities of IRISHBATT up to November 2019. Arrangements are in place with the United Nations for Poland to partner Ireland in UNIFIL from November 2019. Ireland will reduce its contribution of troops in UNIFIL to 340 personnel approximately and Poland will provide some 220 personnel. Hungarian personnel will also deploy as part of the Polish contingent.
Tensions between Hezbollah and Israel have and continue to be a constant in the region. Appropriate force protection for our personnel is in place to address any heightened tension in the area of operations. As with all missions, developments in the UNIFIL area of operations are kept under ongoing review. The security situation in Lebanon will continue to be monitored closely and any necessary adjustments to ensure the safety and security of personnel deployed in UNIFIL will be made as required.
Given the views of the United Nations in relation to the importance of this mission in supporting peace and stability in the region, the continued presence of UNIFIL and Ireland's support to it, remains an important element in the response of the international community through the United Nations. We will continue to support the mission in this regard.
16. Deputy James Browne asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of self-inflicted injuries of both serving and retired Defence Forces personnel in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45650/19]
View answerI am advised by the military authorities that the Defence Forces are not in a position to provide the information requested in relation to the number of self-inflicted injuries of both serving and retired personnel in the past five years.
This data is not specifically captured by the medical record system and would require a search through the medical records of each individual member.
The Defence Forces do not have access to data regarding retired personnel.
I can assure the Deputy that the Defence Forces are fully alert in relation to suicide awareness and prevention, issues of depression and other mental health issues among its personnel. This is particularly important given the nature of their role and personal access to firearms and weapons.
Personnel currently have access to two in-house clinical psychologists, as well as external psychiatric services as required. The Deputy will be aware that efforts to recruit a full-time clinical psychiatrist for the Defence Forces are ongoing.
Additionally, the Defence Forces engages in extensive suicide awareness and mental health education programmes for all members through its Personnel Support Services (PSS).
The PSS also 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.
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.
17. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of the Army Ranger Wing recently deployed to an EU battle group in Germany, which is the fourth time Ireland has been involved in an EU battle group and the first time the unit has taken part; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45770/19]
View answerAt its meeting of 6th February 2018, the Government formally approved the arrangements for Ireland’s participation in the German led EU Battlegroup 2020. It agreed to provide a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force to participate in the Battlegroup which will be on standby for the second semester of 2020 from 1st July 2020. The MoU on Ireland's participation in the German Battlegroup 2020 was also approved by Dáil Éireann at the end of June this year.
The Defence Forces contribution to the German Battlegroup will involve a Special Operations Task Group comprising a Special Operations Forces Platoon, Engineer Special Search Capability, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Capability and a Security Platoon together with staff posts at both the Operational and Force Headquarters. The total personnel involved will amount to about 150 if it deploys. The role of the ARW within the Defence Forces contribution would normally involve tasks such as long-range reconnaissance and the gathering of intelligence.
At present, 10 members of the Permanent Defence Force have been deployed to positions in the Force Headquarters in Germany, which include some members of the Army Ranger Wing. These personnel are engaged in training and planning activities in connection with the Battlegroup, in advance of and during the Battlegroup standby period.
As part of Ireland's participation in this Battlegroup, it is planned that an off-island joint field training exercise of all the Battlegroup elements will take place in Germany 16th-27th March 2020. To this end, it is planned that the main Defence Forces component will locate to Ulm in Germany to participate in exercise European Challenge for a limited period at that time.
Battlegroups, as part of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, offer a stand-by military capability that enables the EU to react rapidly and decisively to a crisis situation. Ireland’s participation in any specific Battlegroup operation is subject to the “Triple Lock” requirements of a UN Mandate/Authorisation and Government and Dáil approval, as appropriate, in accordance with the Defence Acts – i.e. a further Government decision would be required before any actual deployment.
18. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which European defence and security will continue to be provided for in the aftermath of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45734/19]
View answerAs I have said previously, the outcome of the vote of 23 June 2016 in the UK will have implications across all aspects of the business of the European Union, including in the area of defence. While the vote does not give rise to fundamental strategic issues for Defence Forces operations or for Ireland’s continuing engagement with the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), it is expected that Brexit will be a factor in future developments in the Defence sphere within the EU.
Notwithstanding Brexit, the UK will remain a significant security and defence actor in Europe with the potential to contribute to the EU’s comprehensive approach to crisis management operations across both the civil and military domains. The nature of that potential contribution to EU CSDP missions and operations and to initiatives such as PESCO, are being considered within the EU institutions and with the UK.
Ireland is positively disposed to the UK continuing to play an active role, as a 3rd country participant, in contributing to CSDP missions and operations and to adding value to PESCO projects when the rules governing 3rd country participation have been agreed.
As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for on-island security in Ireland rests with An Garda Síochána, while the Revenue Commissioners also have responsibilities relating to their particular mandate.
19. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the shortfall in the various branches of the Defence Forces, in particular in specific ranks and specialist fields, and the additional workload it is placing on the remaining members; and the steps he has taken to address the problem since he was assigned responsibility for defence in March 2011. [45674/19]
View answerThe military authorities have advised that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force across all services, at 30th September 2019, was 8,654 personnel. Whilst I am very much aware that there continues to be a shortfall between the current strength figures and those of the establishment I remain committed to restoring the strength of the Defence Forces to 9,500. I am also fully aware of the specific HR challenges that relate to the different branches of the Defence Forces.
The Government has acknowledged that there are recruitment and retention issues in the Defence Forces that must be addressed. It is a fact that members of the Permanent Defence Force are being attracted to jobs elsewhere in a buoyant labour market. This is as a result of the high calibre of individuals in the Defence Forces and the skills they have acquired during their careers. The issue is more pronounced when these skills have been acquired in specialist fields.
In light of the particular difficulties being faced by the Defence Sector, the Government tasked the Public Service Pay Commission to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of recruitment and retention issues in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).
The Commission’s Report, which has been accepted by Government contains a broad range of recommendations which will provide immediate benefits to members of the Permanent Defence Force as well as initiatives that can lead to further improvements. These are:
- a 10% increase in Military Service Allowance
- the restoration to pre-Haddington Road levels of certain specific Defence Forces allowances
- the restoration of Premium Rates for certain weekend duties.
- the return of an incentive scheme to address pilot retention issues in the Air Corps.
I welcome Both RACO and PDFORRA's acceptance of these recommendations. The Report also contains a range of recommendations aimed at improving work-force planning, recruitment and conditions of service. The Report also provides for an examination of pay structures in the PDF and to identify further retention measures within the context of the Public Service Stability Agreement and future public sector pay negotiations.
The Government has prepared a detailed implementation plan setting out the timelines and objectives, indicating the commitment to deliver on the Pay Commission’s recommendations. Work on implementing the plan is underway and, under my direction, is being prioritised by Civil and Military Management.
I am confident that all the measures contained in the plan, coupled with pay benefits being delivered by the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the most recent being a 1.5% increase on 1st September, will address recruitment and retention challenges being experienced by the Permanent Defence Force.
However, it should be noted that as the Government's plan contains short, medium and long term measures, the full impact of these measures will take time to determine. There are also a range of external variables which impact on recruitment and retention and which can change. The capacity of the Defence Forces to undertake the tasks assigned by Government will continue to be carefully monitored having regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Pay Commission and other actions which are underway.
20. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to re-open Army barracks in the Border region due to issues that may arise following Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45742/19]
View answerAs part of a whole of Government approach, my Department continues to engage in forward planning with the other Departments involved in addressing all issues relevant to the UK's decision to leave the European Union. The Brexit Omnibus Act 2019, and the publication of the Brexit Contingency Action Plan Update last July, reflects the extensive work which has taken place at EU level and on a whole-of-Government basis to prepare for a no deal Brexit.
Ireland's objectives for this stage of the Brexit process have been clear and consistent from the very beginning. Recognising the unique situation on the island of Ireland, the revised draft Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland provides important safeguards that the Good Friday Agreement will be protected in all its parts, including avoiding a hard border, protecting North South cooperation and the all island economy. It also protects the integrity of the EU's Single Market and Customs Union and Ireland's place in them. The Agreement reached between the EU and the UK clearly achieves all of these objectives. It remains the Government's view that ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement remains the best way to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to ensure an orderly withdrawal.
In light of this, there are no plans to reopen Army Barracks in the Border region. As I have said in the past, 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 continues 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.
21. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will report on the membership of Ireland in Partnership for Peace under the auspices of NATO; his views on the way in which the efforts of NATO at re-organising its partnership structures will influence the position of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45089/19]
View answerIreland’s relations with NATO are set within the framework of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council and Partnership for Peace. The primary aim of Ireland's Partnership for Peace participation is to enhance the Defence Forces’ interoperability with other professional military forces for the purpose of engaging in UN authorised peacekeeping and peace support operations led by the UN, EU or NATO.
Over the past 20 years, participation in Partnership for Peace has been fundamental to Ireland being able to keep abreast of developments in areas such as training, humanitarian aspects of peacekeeping and interoperability and enhances the ability of our peacekeepers to work alongside those of our partners. It also enables us to share our own peacekeeping skills with a wide range of countries. Ireland’s involvement has delivered significant improvements for our Defence Forces in terms of capability development and operational capacity. This has enabled us to make a positive impact, particularly in undertaking more demanding international crisis management operations.
As a result of NATO's recent reorganisation of its partnership structures, the responsibility for Partners in Partnership for Peace is being transferred from the Defence Policy and Planning Division to a newly formed directorate within an Operations Division. This new Directorate is called the Defence Institution and Capacity Building Directorate.
It will involve all partnership programmes transferring to the new Directorate and that includes the Planning and Review Process, the Defence and related security Capacity Building initiative, Building Integrity, the Defence Education Enhancement Programme, the Professional Development Programme, and the Military Career Transition Programme.
One of the purposes behind the consolidation of these programmes in a single staff structure, is to ensure greater coherence and coordination between the programmes and to ensure that the programmes are better aligned with the agreed objectives of the individual partnership relationships. I am satisfied that Ireland will continue to benefit as we move to a new NATO organisation structure and as all Partners engage with the new Partnership Directorate. I look forward to the opportunities that this will bring to further enhance capability development and modernise our defence forces.
22. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of each of the ships of the Naval Service, for example, in dry dock or at sea, if and each has a full complement of crew; and when he expects all ships will be at sea at the one time in view of the challenges of drug smuggling, sea fishery protection, possible UN or EU duty in the Mediterranean Sea or local search and rescue and ordinary sea patrols, in the case of ships not in service. [45676/19]
View answerAs 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. In this context, I would highlight the security role of the Naval Service, a role which by its nature can go unrecognised or unacknowledged.
I am advised that the fleet is managed to ensure maximum availability to meet operational requirements. In that context, there is always a sub set of Naval Service vessels on patrol within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone at any one time.
Maintenance and drydocking works are carried out on an on-going basis to ensure the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained to the greatest extent possible. I am advised that one ship, LÉ Ciara, is currently in Dry-dock. In addition, LÉ Róisín’s mid-Life Extension Programme commenced earlier this year with an initial dry-docking phase followed by an extended period of equipment upgrade and refit works. LÉ Niamh’s extension programme is due to commence in 2020. Two ships, LÉ Eithne and LÉ Orla, are currently on Operational Pause.
The personnel challenges in the PDF have been recognised and my priority is on returning the Defence Forces, including the Naval Service, to full strength.
A joint civil and military team has been reviewing the issues facing the Naval Service and its overall viability, and continue to plan ahead to ensure we maximise operational outputs. As we deal with these issues, the safety of serving personnel must be the number one priority.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the individual unit strength cannot be disclosed for operational reasons.
However, I can assure the Deputy that the Naval Service will continue to carry out its various roles using available resources.
23. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to reconsider the consolidation of the Defence Forces barracks infrastructure of 2011 in view of Brexit and security issues in the Border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45741/19]
View answerThe White Paper on Defence, approved by Government in July 2015, comprehensively deals with all aspects of defence policy and was informed by a wide-ranging consultation process. Retention of the Army's two brigade structure is among the commitments outlined in the White Paper. The two-brigade Army structure along with certain barrack closures has seen the consolidation of understrength units into smaller numbers of full strength units, a reduction in the number of headquarters and the associated redeployment of personnel from administrative and support functions to operational units. This has resulted in an improvement in the deployability and sustainability of the Defence Forces, both at home and overseas.
I am fully satisfied that the current structures optimise the capacity of the Defence Forces to continue to fulfil all of the roles assigned by Government. As such, there are no plans to reconsider the consolidation of the Defence Forces barracks infrastructure in view of Brexit and security issues in the Border region. As I have said in the past, 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. There is ongoing close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters and regular coordination and liaison meetings take place. The Defence Forces also provide support to the Revenue Commissioners, again, when requested to do so.
As part of a whole of Government approach, my Department continues to engage in forward planning with the other Departments involved in addressing all issues relevant to the UK's decision to leave the European Union. My Department continues 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.
24. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if capital funding will be allocated for the upgrading of living conditions for personnel in the Curragh camp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45678/19]
View answerIn order to ensure that the Defence Forces have the capability to deliver on all of the roles assigned by Government, I am committed to the development and improvement of the physical environment and living conditions in military installations throughout the country. The Defence Forces Built Infrastructure Programme, is compiled on a priority needs basis by my Department in conjunction with the Military Authorities.
This year some €28m was allocated towards the maintenance of and the development of new building projects for the Defence Forces. This represents an increase of over €10m compared to 2018 and I can confirm to the Deputy that it is intended that the budget allocation will be matched in the coming years to ensure that the level of building activity is in line with Defence Force requirements.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that works on the upgrading and refurbishment of Plunkett Block 7 in the Curragh Camp, Defence Forces Training Centre has commenced. This project involves the refurbishment of the existing accommodation for 58 personnel to modern standards.
25. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the timeframe for returning to and maintaining the strength of the Defence Forces at 9,500; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45726/19]
View answerThe military authorities have advised that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (whole time equivalent), across all services, at 30th September 2019, was 8,654 personnel. Whilst I am very much aware that there continues to be a shortfall between the current strength figures and those of the establishment I remain committed to restoring the strength of the Defence Forces to 9,500. The 2019 recruitment campaign for the Defence Forces is ongoing with 528 new entrants having been inducted so far this year. The Defence Forces recruitment process is subject to continuous monitoring and appraisal to ensure that it remains fit for purpose.
The Government has acknowledged that there are recruitment and retention issues in the Defence Forces that must be addressed. It is a fact that members of the Permanent Defence Force are being attracted to jobs elsewhere in a buoyant labour market. In light of the particular difficulties being faced by the Defence Sector, the Government tasked the Public Service Pay Commission to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of recruitment and retention issues in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).
The Commission’s Report, which has been accepted by Government, contains a broad range of recommendations which will provide immediate benefits to members of the Permanent Defence Force as well as initiatives that can lead to further improvements. Arrangements are being made to process the revised rates of certain Defence Forces allowances which include:
- a 10% increase in Military Service Allowance
- the restoration to pre-Haddington Road levels of certain specific Defence Forces allowances
- the restoration of Premium Rates for certain weekend duties.
- the return of an incentive scheme to address pilot retention issues in the Air Corps.
I welcome the fact that both RACO and PDFORRA have accepted these recommendations.
The Report contains a range of recommendations aimed at improving work-force planning, recruitment and conditions of service. The Report also recommends for an examination of pay structures in the PDF and to identify further retention measures within the context of the Public Service Stability Agreement and future public sector pay negotiations.
The Government has prepared a detailed implementation plan setting out the timelines and objectives, indicating the commitment to deliver on the Pay Commission’s recommendations. Work on implementing the plan is underway and, under my direction, is being prioritised by Civil and Military Management.
I am confident that all the measures contained in the plan, coupled with pay benefits being delivered by the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the most recent being a 1.5% increase on 1st September, will address recruitment and retention challenges being experienced by the Permanent Defence Force.
However, it should be noted that as the Government's plan contains short, medium and long term measures, the full impact of these measures will take time to determine. There are also a range of external variables which impact on recruitment and retention and which can change. The capacity of the Defence Forces to undertake the tasks assigned by Government will continue to be carefully monitored having regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Pay Commission and other actions which are underway.
26. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the details of the proposed increases in pay and allowances for the Defence Forces personnel under the proposed deal from the Public Service Pay Commission; and the way in which this deal will stem the losses of personnel. [45760/19]
View answer32. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the review mechanism in place under the Public Service Pay Commission pay proposals for the Defence Forces in the event that the changes do not result in the forces retaining or recruiting staff in sufficient numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45761/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 32 together.
In light of particular recruitment and retention difficulties in Defence Sector, the Government tasked the Public Service Pay Commission to undertake a comprehensive examination and analysis of underlying difficulties in recruitment and retention in the Permanent Defence Force.
The Commission’s Report, on recruitment and retention issues in the Permanent Defence Force, which has been accepted by Government, contains a broad range of recommendations which will provide immediate benefits to members of the Permanent Defence Force as well as initiatives that can lead to further improvements. This includes immediate financial benefits in the form of:
- a 10% increase in Military Service Allowance (MSA), which, in itself, will boost the earnings of the majority of Permanent Defence Force personnel by between €602 and €675 per annum.
- the restoration to pre-Haddington Road Agreement levels of certain allowances specific to the Defence Forces including Security Duty Allowance and Patrol Duty Allowance.
- the restoration of Premium Rates for certain Weekend Duties.
- the re-establishment of a service commitment scheme for Air Corps pilots.
I welcome the decision of both PDFORRA and RACO to accept these measures.
These measures, which will cost €10 million per annum, are in addition to the increases in pay which members of the Defence Forces are receiving under the Public Service Pay Agreement 2018-2020.
The Government has produced a detailed plan for the implementation of the recommendations in the report of the Public Service Pay Commission. The plan provides for immediate actions as outlined previously, which are currently being implemented following their acceptance by the Representative Associations. The Plan also provides for further measures in the short, medium and longer term. A review of pay structures in the PDF will be undertaken as part of the more general exercise recommended by the PSPC in its 2018 Report. The identification of options to further incentivise long service arrangements for certain Officer and NCO ranks will also be progressed in the context of future pay negotiations. A range of other non-pay related actions are also being progressed.
As the actions being progressed have a range of timeframes, the full impact of the proposals will take time to determine. There are also a range of external variables which impact on recruitment and retention which remain dynamic. The capacity of the Defence Forces to undertake the tasks assigned by Government will continue to be carefully monitored having regard to the implementation of the full recommendations of the Pay Commission and other actions which are underway.
28. 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. [45124/19]
View answerAs part of a whole of Government approach, my Department continues to engage in forward planning with the other Departments involved in addressing all issues relevant to the UK's decision to leave the European Union. The Brexit Omnibus Act 2019, and the publication of the Brexit Contingency Action Plan Update last July, reflects the extensive work which has taken place at EU level and on a whole-of-Government basis to prepare for a no deal Brexit.
Ireland's objectives for this stage of the Brexit process have been clear and consistent from the very beginning. Recognising the unique situation on the island of Ireland, the revised draft Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland provides important safeguards that the Good Friday Agreement will be protected in all its parts, including avoiding a hard border, protecting North South cooperation and the all island economy. It also protects the integrity of the EU's Single Market and Customs Union and Ireland's place in them. The Agreement reached between the EU and the UK clearly achieves all of these objectives. It remains the Government's view that ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement remains the best way to protect the Good Friday Agreement and to ensure an orderly withdrawal.
In light of this, there are no plans for the reinstatement of troops in the Border counties. As I have said in the past, 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 continues 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.
29. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of plans by the European Commission to establish a new directorate-general for defence industry and space; the level of involvement the private sector arms industry will have in formulating EU defence policy; the position of Ireland on the establishment of a new directorate-general; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45769/19]
View answerOn 10 September, the President-elect of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced the establishment of a new Directorate General for Defence Industry and Space.
Space is being reassigned from DG GROW to the new Directorate. The responsibilities of the new Directorate in relation to space will be, first, to foster an innovative space industry in the EU and second, to implement the future Space Programme, which includes the European Global Navigation Satellite System (Galileo) and the European Earth Observation Programme (Copernicus).
In relation to its Defence Industry responsibilities, it is expected that the new DG will administer the European Defence Fund.
The European Defence Fund (EDF) is a financial mechanism designed to enable and accelerate cooperation among Member States to better coordinate national investments in defence. Through the co-funded EDF, it is expected that Member States will be able to achieve greater output and develop defence technology and equipment that may not be feasible on their own, by pooling national resources. The fund will also foster innovation and allow economies of scale, which will enhance the competitiveness of the EU defence industry and deliver economies for individual member States .
It is also expected that the new DG will have responsibility in ensuring that there is an open and competitive European defence equipment market and for enforcing EU procurement rules on defence. Under this new DG, Defence will be treated simply as another industrial sector of the European economy availing of EU sectoral oversight and supports.
Ireland recognises that in order for us to have a well-equipped and capability driven Defence Forces, we require advanced equipment which incorporates the latest technology, alongside a more efficient and less fragmented industrial sector which can produce that equipment. This new DG will support this aim. In addition, we have to recognise that for certain Member States in the EU, defence is a significant contributor to their economies, representing an EU industry of €100 billion with 1.5 million direct and indirect employees.
Ireland may not have a defence industry but there are opportunities for Ireland to access funding through companies in the dual-use product and technology sectors.
My Department will continue to work closely with colleagues in the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation to ensure that Irish interests, particularly in the area of opportunities for SMEs, are strongly represented in the work programmes of this DG.
Notwithstanding the establishment of this new DG, I am satisfied that within the EU, defence and security will remain a national competence, including national spending on defence and security.
30. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is still engaging with the Department of Education and Skills on finding a site for the new school building of a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45679/19]
View answer31. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the engagement he has had with the Department of Education and Skills regarding the need for a site for a new school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45767/19]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 31 together.
The Department of Education and Skills has written to my Department enquiring as to the availability of a suitable site for the provision of a post-primary school from within the Department's property portfolio in South Kildare. As the Curragh contains an operational military installation, officials from the Department have requested the views of the military authorities on the matter. I have been advised that these deliberations are ongoing.
33. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he has ever requested that moneys not spent from the defence Vote annually due to the establishment number of the Defence Forces not being reached that year could be ring-fenced and used in each of the following years to address the reasons many members of the Defence Forces have left or are contemplating leaving the service. [45673/19]
View answerThe Government ensures that Vote 36 (Defence) is fully funded to provide for the pay and allowances of the target strength of 9,500 Permanent Defence Force (PDF) personnel, as set out in the White Paper on Defence.
Over the past five years, less than 0.1% of Defence Sector funding has remained unspent. Savings arising on subheads, including pay subheads, have with the approval of the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform, been used to address spending pressures elsewhere in the Vote Group, in accordance with Government accounting procedures. There is no provision to ring-fence pay savings for carryover to subsequent years.
The Public Service Pay Commission has examined recruitment and retention issues in the Defence Forces and the report contains a broad range of recommendations, which will provide immediate benefits to members of the PDF as well as initiatives that can lead to further improvements. The Public Service Pay Commission recommendations have been accepted by both PDF Representative Associations.
The Government has prepared a detailed plan, with timelines, to facilitate the effective implementation of the Public Service Pay Commission recommendations. This Plan also provides for an examination of core pay in the PDF within the context of the Public Service Stability Agreement and future public sector pay negotiations.
Under my direction, this ongoing work is being prioritised by civil and military management within my Department.
34. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the funding allocated to Defence in budget 2020, which exceeded €1 billion for the first time; the amount allocated to defence programmes as mandated under the European Defence Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45772/19]
View answerThe gross allocation provided to the Defence Sector in Budget 2020 is €1,039.5 million, comprising of €780.4 million for Defence (Vote 36) and €259.1 million for Army Pensions (Vote 35). This significant level of funding emphasises the importance attached by this Government to ensuring that the Defence Forces are fully resourced to deliver on all the roles assigned to them by Government, both at home and overseas.
The Defence allocation of €780.4 million has increased by €22.3 million on the 2019 provision and provides mainly for Defence Forces pay and allowances, standing and operational costs and capital expenditure in 2020. The allocation for pay and allowances includes provision for the target strength of 9,500 Permanent Defence Force (PDF) personnel and includes all outstanding Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 commitments. It also includes provision for increases in Permanent Defence Forces allowances arising from the Public Service Pay Commission’s (PSPC) report on recruitment and retention issues in the PDF and implementation of the initial measures set out in the Government’s associated implementation plan.
The 2020 capital allocation will rise by €7 million to €113 million. This level of capital funding will allow the Defence Organisation to continue 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 allocation for Vote 35 (Army Pensions) is €259.1 million, an increase of €10 million over 2019. This will ensure that sufficient funding is available within the Army Pensions Vote to meet the retirement benefits of some 12,640 ex-members of the Defence Forces and certain dependants.
The European Defence Fund (EDF) is a financial mechanism designed to enable and accelerate cooperation among Member States to better coordinate, supplement and amplify national investments in defence. Through the co-funded EDF, Member States will be able to achieve greater output and develop defence technology and equipment that may not be feasible on their own, by pooling national resources. The Fund will also foster innovation and allow economies of scale, which will enhance the competitiveness of the EU defence industry. The Fund has two strands or windows, which are complementary - the Research Window and the Capability Window.
From 2018 to 2020, the Commission has allocated €590 million to the European Defence Fund from the EU budget, €90 million to the Research Window and €500 million to the Capability Window under European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP). Post 2020, it is proposed that the new EU Defence Fund will be financed from the EU budget. The level of funding proposed is €13 billion but this will depend on the outcome of negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework 2021-2027 which are currently underway.
It is important to note that Ireland’s contributions towards the EDF and EDIDP are directly through the EU budget and therefore do not impact on the Defence Vote.
PESCO is an EU programme where projects may be funded from EDIDP and the EDF. Additional costs may arise in respect of participation in specific PESCO projects, similar to the case where the Defence Forces participate in EDA 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 should they arise in the future would be incurred in the normal course and will therefore be met from within the Defence Vote.
