Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023

Tuesday, 25 July 2023

Questions (161)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

161. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence what progress has been made on the introduction of new long service increments to the pay scales of all ranks of enlisted personnel; the projected cost of introducing a new long service increment to each rank in the Defence Forces including enlisted ranks and private 3 star or able seamen; the current number of LSIs available, by rank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36264/23]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

The Commission on the Defence Forces in its report noted that the salary scales for a number of officer ranks includes two Long Service Increments (LSI). LSIs are included in the payscales for Captain/Lieutenant (Naval Service), Commandant/Lieutenant Commander (Naval Service) and Lieutenant-Colonel/Commander (Naval Service).

The Commission recommended the introduction of LSIs to non-commissioned ranks, including Private 3 Star, as a means of acknowledging the contribution, in ways than other than promotion, of high performing personnel who are happy to remain in the organisation at their existing level.

An evaluation of the introduction of Long Service Increments to the pay scales of all ranks of enlisted personnel, within existing pay structures, is underway. The projected cost of introducing such LSIs is not available as this stage of the evaluation process. On completion of the evaluation, my Department will engage with the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform.