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Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2022

Tuesday, 28 June 2022

Questions (109)

Cathal Berry

Question:

109. Deputy Cathal Berry asked the Minister for Defence when he expects the first member of the Reserve Defence Force to deploy overseas on a six-month tour of duty on a United Nations mandated peace support operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33772/22]

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Written answers

As the Deputy is aware, the primary roles allocated to the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) have thus far, been to augment the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) in crisis situations and to contribute to State ceremonial events.

Heretofore, there was no provision in the Defence Acts to allow RDF personnel to be deployed overseas. However, as the Deputy will be aware, the Defence (Amendment) Act 2021 has now been signed into law, which serves to update the Defence Legislation on the use of the RDF on a voluntary basis, on-island and overseas in support of the PDF and where it is in the best interests of the PDF.

I have written to the Chief of Staff seeking his advice on these matters as they pertain to the requirements of the PDF.

In tandem, the practical arrangements to implement the amendment, including all the elements associated with the voluntary service by RDF members overseas,  are under active consideration by my officials and the military authorities. Furthermore, my officials will also be actively consulting with RDFRA, the Representative Association for the RDF on these matters at the appropriate juncture. 

The outcome of these deliberations, and the advice of the Chief of Staff,  will inform my consideration of these matters. The Deputy will appreciate therefore that I do not wish to comment further pending the outcome of this process.

Separately, and on foot of the enactment of the Defence (Amendment) Act 2021, I engaged with the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) on the issue of employment protection for RDF members who might be engaged in such voluntary military service in support of the PDF going forward.

Engagement at official level with DETE has continued since then to consider the matter and identify appropriate next steps. This body of work is ongoing.

Finally, as the Deputy will also be aware, the Report of the Independent Commission on the Defence Forces, published in February of this year, includes proposals on the role and contribution of the RDF. There has been a process underway to consider the full set of  recommendations in consultation with Ministerial colleagues and stakeholders. I intend to revert to Government with a proposed response and a high-level action plan in advance of the summer recess.

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