Written Answers Nos. 54-78
54. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the annual capital investment required to meet Level of Ambition 2 of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces; and the amount allocated in each of the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024. [50878/23]
View answer59. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the reason the capital investment in Defence spending in Budget 2024 is far below the target set in document level of Ambition 2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50894/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 59 together.
The Government approved a move to Level of Ambition 2 (LOA2), as recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces in July, 2022. As part of that decision, the Government committed to increasing the funding allocated to defence to €1.5 billion (at January 2022 prices) by 2028, through the annual Estimates process. Delivery of this objective will allow the required transformation and investment in Defence recruitment, equipment and infrastructure that was identified by the Commission. It is worth noting that the Commission Report included an approximation of the likely annual capital costs of LOA2 rather than an outline of annual capital investment targets to be achieved during the transition to that level.
I remain fully committed to delivering on this strategic funding objective as evidenced by the fact that the Defence Vote Group allocation for 2024 has increased by €114 million (10%) since 2022, when the Government approved the Commission Report.
In any given year, the Defence budget allocation is determined within an overarching budgetary framework which encompasses existing NDP multi-annual capital allocations and remains cognisant of the level of resources available, commensurate with defence policy requirements. It is within this context that the annual Estimates discussions have taken place with the Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery & Reform, to include full consideration of Defence capital investment priorities for 2024 and beyond.
Budget 2024 provided a capital investment allocation of €176 million to Defence, an allocation which ensured that the capital budget for Defence is maintained at its highest ever level. The principal demand drivers of Defence capital requirements are the ongoing acquisition and renewal of military equipment, along with the development and upgrade of Defence Forces built infrastructure and ICT capacity. The primary return on Defence capital investment is the maintenance and development of necessary military capabilities, which provide the means by which the Defence Forces contribute to national and international peace and security and fulfil all other roles assigned by Government.
I should also note that Defence will be seeking further capital funding for 2024 as part of the allocation of €0.25 billion earmarked for 2024 to be funded from exchequer windfall receipts, as set out in the Summer Economic Statement and, beyond that, will ensure that further progress is made through strong positive engagement with DPENDPDR on an anticipated review of Sectoral NDP multi-annual capital allocations for the medium term, set to commence in 2024.
The capital allocation provided to Defence over the 2021 to 2024 timeframe is as follows –
- 2021 - €131 million;
- 2022 - €141 million;
- 2023 - €176 million, and
- 2024 - €176 million.
This level of capital funding demonstrates the Government’s strong commitment to support the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern, agile military force, capable of responding to increasingly complex security threats.
57. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the measures that are being taken to ensure the safety our Defence Forces deployed in Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50881/23]
View answerAs of 01 November, the Defence Forces have 468 personnel serving between the three UN missions in the Middle East region – UNIFIL (319), UNDOF (136) and UNTSO (13).
All Defence Forces’ personnel, including personnel serving in Lebanon (with UNTSO and UNIFIL), are maintaining a high level of vigilance and continue to monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas.
Defence Forces’ peacekeepers are well trained prior to deployment and prepared to anticipate events such as occasions of sporadic fire in their Area of Operations. This includes taking shelter in protected positions, as they have had to do on several occasions since the outbreak of hostilities.
In all of their missions , Defence Forces’ personnel comply fully with all UN security precautions, including taking shelter in protected positions as appropriate.
The safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to the Government. I am in ongoing contact with the Chief of Staff and the Department of Defence and being kept apprised of all developments in those areas in which Defence Forces’ personnel are deployed.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely along with our partners in the UN and the wider international community.
58. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the amount expended on Israeli goods and services in each of the years 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023; and the amount of which related to military equipment or hardware. [50877/23]
View answer72. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether the State is supplying and/or buying or selling arms from/to Israel, or any component parts of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50892/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 72 together.
I am advised that the Department of Defence has purchased defensive equipment from Israeli companies as set out in the table at the foot of this reply. The expenditure primarily relates to Ground Surveillance Radars, Engineering Equipment, Fire Control Systems and the upgrade of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles operated by the Defence Forces.
The principle of competitive tendering for Government contracts is used by the Department of Defence for the acquisition of defensive equipment for the Defence Forces. This is an EU law requirement and in accordance with the Defence and Security Directive. Central to those procedures is the requirement to allow fair competition between suppliers through the submission of tenders following advertising of the tender competition on the e-tenders site and on the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU), where appropriate. Such tender competitions are open to any company or country, subject to the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargos or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargos in place on Israel or Israeli companies.
The Department of Defence carries out its procurement functions in accordance with the legal rules in place and is obliged to follow the established procurement principles for the selection of economic operators with regard to the award of contracts.
The Department has not sold or supplied arms to Israel. Any export of weapons to Israel or elsewhere is a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment which regulates the exports of arms from the State.
2020 - €513,672
2021 - €667,318
2022 - €463,730
2023 - €307,500
60. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence for an overview of Budget 2024 in relation to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50709/23]
View answerThe total allocation provided for the Defence Vote Group for 2024 is €1.231 billion, comprising of €921 million for Vote 36 - Defence and €310 million for Vote 35 - Army Pensions. This is an overall increase of €21 million on 2023.
For 2024, the key priority is to progress the transformation of the Defence Forces, with a programme of work as outlined in the Strategic Framework, including facilitating ongoing investment in defence capabilities while also ensuring that the Defence Forces are fully funded to continue to deliver on all operational outputs, both at home and overseas.
The Commission on the Defence Forces reinforced the requirement for significant capital investment on defensive equipment programmes and on upgrading and modernising the Defence Forces built infrastructure. In that context, I welcome the 2024 Defence capital allocation of €176 million, an allocation which ensures that the capital budget for Defence is maintained at its highest ever level.
This allocation will be used for the ongoing replacement and upgrade of essential military equipment, necessary building and maintenance works and ICT projects, as part of a sustained programme of equipment replacement and infrastructural development to include, inter alia, Primary Radar, Software Defined Radio and Force Protection Programmes along with a wide range of Defence Forces Built Infrastructure projects encompassing Army, Air Corps and Naval Service installations throughout the country.
The overall 2024 Defence (Vote 36) pay allocation of €538 million provides for the pay and allowances of Permanent Defence Force personnel, civilian employees (technicians, trades, etc.) and departmental civil servants. It also provides for paid training for members of the Reserve Defence Force.
Ongoing staffing difficulties in the Defence Forces are acknowledged and, in that context, there are a vast number of recruitment and retention measures currently underway within the Defence Organisation to address these issues. I can confirm that the 2024 PDF pay allocation provides for a prevailing PDF strength of 7,700 plus anticipated additional personnel of 400, and includes all carryover impacts of the existing Public Service Pay Agreement.
The current expenditure non-pay allocation has increased significantly by €32 million to €207 million and provides mainly for essential and ongoing Defence Forces standing and operational costs including utilities, fuel, catering, maintenance, information technology and training.
The Defence allocation for 2024 also includes specific funding for a number of key recommendations arising from the CODF and the IRG, such as:
• An increased Civilian Support allocation to facilitate further progression of civilian recruitment and to also allow for an increased spend on the essential engagement of external contractors and consultants;
• An increased Defence Forces Medical Healthcare allocation to cover the full year costs of extended healthcare to all Defence Forces personnel;
• A specific provision to meet the 2024 costs of the Tribunal of Inquiry arising from the IRG Report;
• A significant increase in the advertising allocation to support an enhanced Defence Forces recruitment effort throughout 2024;
In addition, over €6 million will be provided for essential training, equipment and running costs for Civil Defence, including funding for new uniforms for members of Civil Defence.
The 2024 Army Pensions (Vote 35) allocation of €310 million will provide funding for 13,475 Army Pensioners and certain dependants.
The 2024 funding allocation provided to Defence will allow the PDF to continue to meet all tasks assigned by Government, both at home and overseas, and reflects the commitment of the Government to providing a financial platform for the transformation of the Defence Forces as recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces and to progress implementation of recommendations of the IRG Report.
61. Deputy James Lawless asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his response to the statement in the Report of the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy that Ireland is not, and never has been, in a position to defend its neutrality, unlike other neutral European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50711/23]
View answer66. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his vision for the transformation of the Irish Defence Forces, particularly in the area of military neutrality, following the Report on the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50750/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 66 together.
The Chairperson of the Forum, Louise Richardson, has prepared and presented her report, which provides a summary and analysis of the four days of discussions and submissions to the public consultation. This report was published and presented to Government on 17 October. The Dáil debate on the report, to which I committed, will take place tomorrow.
One of the key points raised over the four days of the Consultative Forum was the requirement to invest in the Defence Forces. This requirement to invest more in our Defence Forces has already started, as reflected in the increased spending allocations in Budgets 2023 and 2024.
Following detailed consideration of the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, the Government approved a move to Level of Ambition 2, with a commensurate increase of the Defence budget from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion, in 2022 prices, by 2028.
Significant progress has been made on the development of a detailed plan to implement the Commission recommendations by 2028. This detailed implementation plan was approved by Government today (Tuesday 21st November) and published.
The Government also approved a Strategic Framework for Transformation of the Defence Forces in September, which outlines the necessary actions to be delivered by the end of 2024 as part of the longer-term transformation of the Defence Forces into a fit-for-purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future. There is a focus on strategic HR and cultural change which will serve to transform the internal working environment for serving members.
The Strategic Defence Review is one of these priorities and the first stage of this process has commenced with the preparation of a revised security environment assessment (SEA). This is currently being progressed by an interdepartmental working group, having full regard to the significantly changed security environment in Europe following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Following its completion, a fresh consideration of the implications of this assessment for overall policy requirements, associated tasks, capability development and resourcing will then be completed.
As well as encompassing the Government's response to the recommendations from the Commission on the Defence Forces, the Strategic Defence Review will consider the reflections of the Consultative Forum on international security and the future role of the Defence Forces both nationally and internationally.
In term of capability, the priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are considered as part of the capability development planning processes which include both a five-year Equipment Development Plan and a Built Infrastructure Programme.
The Equipment Development Plan recognises the need to maintain and upgrade military capabilities having regard to emerging priorities, operational requirements and changes in technology. This is an ongoing process, with significant progress having been made in terms of equipment procurement and modernisation in the last 18 months.
As capability development is an ongoing iterative process, there are a number of further defensive equipment acquisition and upgrade projects that are currently ongoing, at different stages, and due to be completed this year and planned for completion over the coming years. These include those capabilities highlighted by the Commission on the Defence Forces such as Primary Radar and Counter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle systems.
The Chair’s Report of the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy references the investment that other neutral states have made in their Armed Forces. I am certain that the delivery of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces as well as the Strategic Framework will result in transformation with a modern, agile, forward looking Defence Forces equipped to deal with the increasingly complex security environment.
62. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will include the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 in the terms of reference of the tribunal of inquiry, specifically in the context of the sensitive, significant matters and working circumstances raised by a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50893/23]
View answerThe report of the Independent Review Group established to examine dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces was published on 28 March 2023. The Government agreed to progress the recommendations contained in the Report, which included the establishment of a Statutory Inquiry to identify systemic failures, if any, in the complaints system, in order to ensure accountability and transparency.
Draft Terms of Reference were prepared in consultation with the Attorney General and shared with a wide variety of interested parties.
In July, I obtained the approval of the Government to establish a Judge-led Tribunal of Inquiry, pursuant to the provisions of the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act, 1921 (as amended), to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces and to address workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. I have continued to engage with a range of stakeholders to this process.
I have met the Women of Honour and their legal representatives on a number of occasions, the most recent being on 27 September last. Many of the additional terms and edits sought by the Women of Honour and their legal team, including their request for a statutory public inquiry have been included in the terms of reference for the Tribunal of Inquiry.
I have explained at these meetings that the Terms of Reference must be clearly defined to ensure that the Tribunal is capable of completing the task assigned to it within a reasonable timeframe. I have also outlined that certain terms sought for inclusion will in fact be examined in separate, non-statutory investigations, in line with the recommendations in the IRG report.
It is important to note that the Tribunal will have regard to any and all relevant legislative provisions, which includes the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, and this will be at the discretion of the Judge who will be appointed as Chair of the Tribunal.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the statutory body responsible for matters relating to occupational health and safety. A copy of the IRG Report was circulated to the HSA following publication earlier this year. I welcome the inspection of the Defence Forces which the HSA recently advised that they propose to undertake, arising from matters in the IRG Report.
Revised Terms of Reference for the Tribunal of Inquiry have been shared recently with individuals and groups who have been in contact with my Office.
I intend to revert to Government in the coming weeks to seek approval for the Terms of Reference and for the appointment of a Judge to Chair the Tribunal.
63. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to outline plans for the Irish Air Corps Museum and the Heritage Project, and for the curated historical aviation artefacts displayed in the Baldonnell Museum at a hangar in Casement Aerodrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50331/23]
View answerI am advised that a Museum has been established by the Air Corps in Baldonnel and has been developed by them over the years. The Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out an ambitious programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027 across the entire spectrum of military activities. With regard specifically to the Irish Air Corps Museum there are currently no capital works scheduled in this regard under the Plan. The IDP is kept under periodic review by my officials together with the Defence Forces and any prospective capital project would need to be considered in the context of existing and competing military operational demands.
The Deputy may wish to note that major capital works projects to the value of some €17m are currently being developed for the Aerodrome such as the relocation of St Bricins Military Medical Facility to Casement Aerodrome; Hangar 3 enhancement works, and the refurbishment of the Main Technical Stores.
64. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the Strategic Defence Review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50867/23]
View answerThe White Paper on Defence published in 2015 set out the Government intention to put in place a new fixed cycle of defence reviews. Such reviews are common practice internationally and give reassurance that policy remains up to date and relevant to changing future circumstances.
The White Paper set out that every three years there will be a White Paper update that would consider progress made up to that time and consider any revisions required with each alternative three-year review in the cycle being more comprehensive in nature and to be styled a Strategic Defence Review. This new review process also informs strategy statement preparation.
The first of these reviews, the White Paper Update was published in 2019. The second of these reviews, the Strategic Defence Review stage, was due to commence in 2021. With the establishment of the independent Commission on the Defence Forces by Government in December 2020, a decision was taken to pause commencing the Strategic Defence Review until the Commission on the Defence Forces had completed their report and Government had been given time to consider the report.
Following detailed consideration of the Commission Report the Minister for Defence brought to Government a High Level Action Plan and a Memo for Government which were approved on July 12th last year. Part of the High Level Action Plan was the progression of a number of early actions one of these being the commencement of the Strategic Defence Review.
The first stage of this review has commenced with the preparation of a revised security environment assessment (SEA) which is currently being conducted by an interdepartmental working group and will address the significant security environment changes since the invasion of Ukraine. A fresh consideration of the implications of this assessment for overall policy requirements, associated tasks, capability development and resourcing will then be completed. The security environment assessment should be completed in the near future and will inform the Strategic Defence Review
The Department of Defence, together with the Department of Foreign Affairs, co-hosted a Consultative Forum on International Security in June 2023. The Forum built a deeper understanding of the threats faced by the State, and the links to, and between, our foreign, security and defence policy. It also provided an opportunity to examine the experiences and policy choices of other countries in responding to the new security environment in Europe.
As well as encompassing the Governments agreed recommendations from the Commission on the Defence Forces, the Strategic Defence Review will consider the reflections of the Consultative Forum on International Security and the future role of the Defence Forces both nationally and internationally.
In September 2023, I welcomed the publication of the Strategic Framework - Transformation of the Defence Forces. This Strategic Framework clearly sets out the vital work that is underway relating to the transformation of the Defence Forces and outlines the necessary actions to be delivered by the end of 2024. It covers the recommendations made in the Independent Review Group and the Commission on the Defence Force reports, together with measures to address recruitment and retention challenges, and the legislative changes needed to modernise our Defence Forces.
Development work in the area of defence policy and operations will also happen in parallel with the transformation of the Defence Forces and will set the context for the future.
It is expected that the Strategic Defence Review will be completed by the end of Q1 2024.
65. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total military aid given by the EU to Ukraine since February 2022, and the details of the contribution given by Ireland to-date; the details of the contribution given by Ireland towards common costs of the EU military assistance mission in support of Ukraine; the details of any contributions or donations made by the Defence Forces to Ukraine to-date since February 2022, and any contributions or donations planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50891/23]
View answerIreland and the European Union have been consistent in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s illegal and unjustified war of aggression. The response by the European Union to Russia's invasion of Ukraine has been unprecedented in its unity, firmness and determination. It has encompassed political, financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support for Ukraine.
EU Member States have agreed approximately €5.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine under the European Peace Facility to date, consisting of approximately €5.22 billion for lethal equipment and approximately €380 million for non-lethal equipment.
In line with the Programme for Government, Ireland constructively abstains on all lethal equipment elements of the support packages. Our full share of funding – approximately €122 million (to date) – is, therefore, directed exclusively toward non-lethal support. This is the basis on which Ireland’s involvement in the EPF was decided by the Government and agreed with and understood by our EU partners.
Ireland's contribution towards the common costs of the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) totals €2.25 million. A further contribution by Ireland is likely before the end of the year.
Through their participation in EUMAM Ukraine, the Defence Forces have provided two modules of training to the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) in Demining & Clearance (in Cyprus), two modules of Tactical Combat Casualty Care /Combat Life Saver (in Germany) and a module of Drill Instructor training (in Germany). The Defence Forces are currently delivering a module of Drill Instructor training to the UAF and plan to deliver a further iteration of Combat Life Saver before the end of the year (both in Germany). They have a draft programme of training to be provided up to March 2024 which is subject to regular updating.
The Department of Defence has previously provided approximately 10 tonnes or 5,000 units of ready-to-eat meals and 200 units of body armour, which were shipped from Defence Forces stocks to Ukraine. I have also approved the donation by the Defence Forces will donate two DOK-ING Mine Clearance Systems (mine flails) to the UAF. It is currently foreseen that this donation as well as training on their use and maintenance will take place early in 2024.
67. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how many Irish Defence Forces personnel deployed on 14 November 2023 are on the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon; of that number, how many of them were filled through “mandatory selection”; and how many were already in Lebanon as part of the UNIFIL deployment who were asked to stay on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50899/23]
View answerThe deployment of the 123rd Infantry Battalion to the UNIFIL in Lebanon is well underway and is expected to be completed later this week. On November 14th, 156 personnel deployed to the mission and the remainder are due to deploy on 24th November.
In the event that there are insufficient numbers of volunteer personnel to fulfil all of the mission specific appointments, the Defence Forces utilises a process of Mandatory Selection. Defence Forces personnel are mandatorily selected for overseas service in accordance with the provisions laid down in the relevant Administrative Instruction. This process includes an appeals mechanism.
Personnel that are qualified to fulfil the appointments, but who have not volunteered for overseas service, are identified by their unit and formally interviewed by their Unit Commander. Depending on the individual’s personal or professional circumstances, the Unit Commander will either recommend or not recommend the individual for mandatory selection.
There are further selection criteria applied to those personnel who are considered qualified and recommended for mandatory selection by their Commanding Officer. This includes a provision whereby personnel should not be considered for mandatory selection without the prior approval of Deputy Chief of Staff (Support), if they have returned from overseas service in the previous two years.
Of those 156 personnel who commenced their deployment on November 14th , it was necessary to fill one (1) post through mandatory selection.
With regard to the issue of personnel staying on in mission, I am advised that the Defence Forces do not ask personnel to ‘stay on’. I am informed, however, that 12 personnel serving with the 122nd Infantry Battalion volunteered to remain with the battalion and were subsequently selected to serve with the 123rd Infantry Battalion.
68. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the information he has been given regarding the alleged incident in Kilworth Camp that was reported in media recently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50691/23]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that I have been briefed by the military authorities on this incident. The matter is the subject of an ongoing Military Police investigation and I will not, therefore, be making any further comment at this time.
69. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when a new Government jet will be procured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50708/23]
View answerSignificant work has taken place to-date in my Department in order to progress the Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) project and a competitive process to acquire a new mid sized aircraft for Ministerial Air Transport has just been published on the Official Journal of the European Union platform. This project is being carried out in accordance with the Defence and Security Directive 81/2009 and in compliance with the Public Spending Code.
The principal role of a new mid-sized aircraft is primarily for the delivery of the Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) that will also be used for a broader range of tasks. These include the non-combatant evacuation of Irish citizens from critical situations, air-ambulance patient transfers, medical evacuation or repatriation of Irish Defence Forces personnel deployed on overseas missions, and logistics support for the transport of sensitive material/resupplies to Irish Defence Forces overseas missions.
70. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on his engagement with a group (details supplied) and their legal representatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50706/23]
View answer73. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when he will bring forward the Terms of Reference for the Statutory Inquiry arising out of the Report of the Independent Review Group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50707/23]
View answer76. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his views that the proposed tribunal to investigate allegations made by members of a group (details supplied) has a wide and broad enough remit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50751/23]
View answer78. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the Tribunal of Inquiry to examine the effectiveness of the complaints process in the Defence Forces; the timeline for same; the status of the terms of reference of the tribunal; the details of his engagement in the past month with a group (details supplied) with regard to the concerns they have raised over the terms of reference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50890/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 70, 73, 76 and 78 together.
The report of the Independent Review Group established to examine dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces was published on 28 March 2023. The Government agreed to progress the recommendations contained in the Report, which included the establishment of a Statutory Inquiry to identify systemic failures, if any, in the complaints system, in order to ensure accountability and transparency.
Draft Terms of Reference were prepared in consultation with the Attorney General and shared with a wide variety of interested parties, including the Women of Honour and their legal representatives.
In July, I obtained the approval of the Government to establish a Judge-led Tribunal of Inquiry, pursuant to the provisions of the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act 1921 (as amended), to examine the effectiveness of the complaints processes in the Defence Forces and to address workplace issues relating to discrimination, bullying, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. I have continued to engage with a range of stakeholders to this process.
I have met with the Women of Honour and their legal representatives on a number of occasions, the most recent being on 27 September last, and I wrote to their legal representatives on 2 November last. Many of the additional terms and edits sought by the Women of Honour and their legal team, including their request for a statutory public inquiry have been included in the draft Terms of Reference for the Tribunal of Inquiry.
I have explained at these meetings, and in my correspondence, that the Terms of Reference must be clearly defined to ensure that the Tribunal is capable of completing the task assigned to it within a reasonable timeframe. I have also outlined that certain terms sought for inclusion will in fact be examined in separate, non-statutory investigations, in line with the recommendations in the IRG report.
Revised Terms of Reference have been shared with individuals and groups who have been in contact with my Office. I hope to meet with the Women of Honour Group again this week before I revert to Government in the coming weeks to seek approval for the Terms of Reference and for the appointment of a Judge to Chair the Tribunal.
71. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how many Irish Defence Forces personnel will participate in a German-led EU battlegroup in 2024/2025; if the selection of any personnel through “mandatory selection” will be ruled out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50900/23]
View answerIn January of this year, the Irish Government approved the participation by the Defence Forces in the German-led EU Battlegroup in 2024/2025. This will be the eighth occasion on which the Defence Forces have been part of an EU Battlegroup and the first since 2020. The Battlegroup will be stood-up during 2024 and will be on standby throughout 2025. Any deployment of Defence Forces' personnel as part of the Battlegroup will be subject to the requirements of the triple lock.
Participation in EU Battlegroups supports the development of rapid deployment skills and capabilities within the Defence Forces, together with improved interoperability with like-minded States. Ireland's participation in EU Battlegroups also reflects Irelands support for the UN, where successive Secretaries General of the UN have endorsed the development of the EU Battlegroup concept and Ireland’s participation therein. Ireland’s active engagement in EU Battlegroups also demonstrates Ireland’s commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union. It also enhances our capacity to influence the ongoing development and evolution of the rapid response capacity of the EU; in particular, the role Battlegroups can play in reinforcing and acting as a strategic reserve for UN blue-hat operations.
It is currently foreseen that the total number of the proposed Defence Forces contribution to the Battlegroup will be approximately 182 personnel. This will be comprised of a Mechanised Infantry Company (with a Company HQ, Infantry platoons and a weapons platoon consisting of 138 personnel) together with a National Support Element (consisting of 34 persons providing the necessary transport, medical, CIS, maintenance and ordnance support) and staff posts of 10 personnel to the Force Headquarters. The Operational Headquarters will be located in Ulm, Germany, while the Force Headquarters will be based in Strasbourg, France. Unlike overseas deployments to UNIFIL for example, Defence Force participants will not be required to be sent overseas for long periods of time. While the period of the Battlegroup is for two years, most of the training and preparation will happen at home and will only require travelling for short term exercises at intervals.
In the event that there are insufficient numbers of volunteer personnel to fulfil all of the mission specific appointments, the Defence Forces may use a process of Mandatory Selection.
74. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if Collins Barracks, Cork will be the location of the headquarters of the military formation that will control military operations in the southern region of the country, in the new Defence Forces structure that emerges as a result of the recommendations set out in the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50898/23]
View answerThe Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, the report of the Commission was published on 9th February 2022. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
There are a number of recommendations contained in the report which may impact on the structure of the Defence Forces, including that the structure of the Army be reviewed, and in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered.
The recommendation, that the structure of the Army be reviewed, was identified as an Early Action in the High Level Action Plan. However, no decisions on the future disposition or locations of Defence Forces formations, installations and personnel have been made at this time.
In keeping with the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, work is progressing on the Army Force Design process in order to create “a more agile and flexible force design structure”.
An external consultant has been appointed with Terms of Reference assigned to consider how a future Army Force Design process should be planned and executed to meet current and future operational taskings and other government assigned tasks.
Phase one of the Force Design process is scheduled to be completed and submitted to the Chief of Staff for approval by the end of Q4 2023.
An Army Force Design Team has also been established with a Colonel Rank in the lead with initial supporting staff appointed and tasked to progress post-phase one planning.
75. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his views on the findings concerning recruitment and retention in the Irish Defence Forces in a survey compiled by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50748/23]
View answerI am aware that the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO)presented their Member Engagement Survey 2023 at their Annual Delegates Conference last week and shared it with my Department in the last few days. My officials have requested a briefing on the findings therein.
I have previously acknowledged recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces and the initiatives underway to counter these challenges. These include ongoing general service and direct entry recruitment, the re-entry schemes, the 'Be More' recruitment campaign, significant progress on basic pay, and the rollout of private medical care to all ranks.
I also recently announced the new Naval Service Patrol Duty Allowance to be introduced from 1 January 2024. This allowance will consolidate the current Patrol Duty Allowance and Sea Going Service Commitment scheme and could be worth in excess €20,000 per annum to personnel at sea. This was announced and welcomed at last week's RACO conference. The much improved PDA allowance is in addition to the private medical scheme announced recently as well as other initiatives for the Medical Officers .All of these improvements are to assist with recruitment and retention of the Defence Forces.
In other actions, a Joint Induction Training Centre has been established in Gormanston, with a view to increasing the throughput of recruits, the maximum age of entry has been increased to 29 years for General Service recruits, Cadets, apprentices, and certain specialists, and fitness test scoring has been amended to maximise induction levels.
External HR expertise has also been engaged to validate Defence Forces recruitment efforts and a marine specialist recruitment body has been contracted to target individuals with the skills and expertise required by the Naval Service.
My immediate focus remains on stabilising the numbers of personnel, and to facilitate capacity for further increases. This
will enable us to align ultimately with the level of ambition recommended in the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, and agreed by Government.
77. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel serving between the three UN missions in the Middle East region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50718/23]
View answerAs of 01 November, the Defence Forces have 468 personnel serving between the three UN missions in the Middle East region – UNIFIL (319), UNDOF (136) and UNTSO (13).
All personnel serving in UNIFIL, UNTSO and UNDOF are accounted for and are safe and well. In all cases, they are complying fully with UN security precautions, maintaining a high level of vigilance and continuing to monitor the developing situation in their respective mission areas.
Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
Full details of all personnel currently serving in all missions overseas are listed in the tabular statement below.
Members of the Permanent Defence Force Serving Overseas
As of 01 November 2023
|
UN MISSIONS |
|
|
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQUNIFIL 122nd Infantry BattalionUNIFIL Sector West HQ |
83074 |
|
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel & Syria |
13 |
|
UNDOF (COS Staff/FHQ Staff - Camp Faouar - Bravo side)UNDOF 67th Infantry Group (Camp Faouar - Bravo side) |
6130 |
|
TOTAL |
468 |
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
|
|
EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
4 |
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ |
13 |
|
Naval Service EU Mission (Op Irini HQ) |
4 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN MISSIONS |
489 |
|
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND CO-OPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
8 |
|
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
2 |
|
Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
Military Representative in PSC Delegation (Brussels) |
4 |
|
Liaison Office of Ireland, NATO/PfP (Brussels) |
3 |
|
EU OHQ Operation Althea, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
Irish Liaison Officer to SHAPE & Military Co-Op Division, Mons, Belgium |
1 |
|
Military C-IED expert, UN Training Entebbe |
1 |
|
EUMAM UA |
4 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
515 |
