Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2023
175. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there has been an increase to the budgetary figure for meals for personnel within the Defence Forces; if he could provide the figure for these meals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29594/23]
View answerThe cost of food for the Defence Forces is met from Subhead A.14 of the Defence Vote, which provides for Defence Forces Uniforms, Clothing, Equipment and Catering Costs. The budget allocation for this subhead for 2023 is €16.5 million, of which €9.5 million provides for Defence Forces catering needs. This includes an increase of €1.76m on the 2022 allocation. In addition, the Daily Ration Rate has been increased from €4.20 to the current rate of €8 per person, with this rate being kept under constant review in line with military management recommendations. These increases will enable the continued delivery of nutritionally balanced meals to all Defence Forces personnel, serving at home and overseas.
