Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 November 2021
80. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on his attendance at the 2021 annual delegate conference of an association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56485/21]
View answer86. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide details on his recent attendance at the annual delegate conference of an association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56577/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 86 together.
I was delighted to have had the opportunity to attend and speak at PDFORRA's Annual Delegate Conference in early October of this year. I used the occasion to address a number of key issues which are important for PDFORRA members.
I raised the important issue of inappropriate behaviour in the workplace. I provided the delegates with an update on the most recent actions that I have undertaken and reiterated the point that inappropriate behaviour cannot and will not be tolerated in the Defence Forces. I briefed the Conference on the roll out of the Confidential Contact Person (CCP) who has been appointed to provide professional, safe and confidential support for any past or present member of the Defence Forces, who may wish to report alleged bullying, harassment, sexual harassment or discrimination.
I provided an update on the current status of the work of the Commission on Defence Forces. I advised the delegates to the Conference that I expect the recommendations arising out of the report of the Commission will be far reaching and challenging and their implementation will require positive and constructive engagement from PDFORRA and members.
I informed delegates that I was delighted to note the Association's favourable ballot on the public service agreement 2021-2022 - "Building Momentum". This has provided for further increases in pay and allowances for members of PDFORRA in accordance with the terms of the agreement
I acknowledged the contribution of PDFORRA to the negotiations on the review of Technician Pay Grades 2-6.
I spoke about the review of contracts of service for personnel enlisted to the Permanent Defence Force post 1994, which is a key issue for not only PDFORRA members, but also for me as Minister for Defence. The review has been completed and officials in the Department of Defence are consulting with officials from the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform in respect of cost and pension implications arising from the recommendations in the Review.
Regarding the Working Time Directive, I informed PDFORRA delegates that the Government is committed to bringing the Defence Forces within the scope of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997.
I thanked delegates and all Defence Force members, on behalf of Government and the people of Ireland, for the support that they have provided to the Health Service, in particular, in response to the national effort to combat COVID-19.
All of the above issues are being progressed through my Department and where appropriate through the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force. I look forward to further continued constructive engagement with the Defence Forces Representative Associations.
