Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 March 2023
600. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if people who leave the Defence Forces due to poor pay and conditions can receive their gratuity early in order to help them with the housing and cost-of-living crises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13696/23]
View answerDefence Forces pension entitlements, including gratuities, are payable in accordance with the rules of the relevant Defence Forces pension scheme of which an individual is a member.
There is no provision in the Defence Forces pension schemes rules for the payment of a gratuity prior to the date a member leaves the Defence Forces as such payments are due as a consequence of the retirement or resignation of a member.
This is in line with other public service pension schemes.
I have highlighted some of the current pay and conditions, for the Deputy's information.
Highlights of Current Pay and Conditions
Starting Pay (with effect from 1 March 2023)
- Graduate Cadet (on commissioning) €46,406
- School Leaver Cadet (on commissioning) €41,123
- Recruit (on completion of basic training) €37,147.
There are opportunities for frequent career advancement to higher ranks and to qualify for additional allowances.
Education and Personal Development
- Fully funded opportunities to gain professional and academic qualifications while receiving full pay and allowances.
- Technician Training/Apprenticeships are available for enlisted personnel
Overseas Service
- Tax-free Overseas Duty Allowance, which can start at €15,000 for a 6 month deployment
- Opportunities for Family Friendly deployments of 3 months
Annual Leave
- 28 days minimum
- Fully paid statutory leaves including Adoptive, Maternity and Paternity Leave
- Also paid sick leave, study leave, parental leave
Pension
All serving members of the Permanent Defence Force are members of a Public Service Pension Scheme.
