Written Answers Nos. 130-157
131. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he is aware of a situation (details supplied); what measures he plans to introduce to deal with same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15354/24]
View answerI am aware of the serious pollution incident that occurred in May 2023, resulting in a significant fish kill on the Ballymacraven river, a tributary of the Inagh river in west Clare . The Ballymacraven river is an important spawning habitat for Atlantic salmon and for juvenile and adult European eel, both of which are highly vulnerable. This type of pollution incident which resulted in the significant loss of freshwater fish is not acceptable and there were court proceedings in relation to this matter.
Inland Fisheries Ireland, (IFI), as the statutory body tasked with the protection, management and conservation of the inland fisheries resource is extremely proactive in its efforts to prevent pollution incidents and will continue to exercise vigilance when dealing with pollution incidences and will utilise its powers to gather evidence and where warranted, use this evidence to bring cases before the courts.
The Inland Fisheries Acts 1959 to 2017 and the Water Pollution Acts 1977 and 1990 provide for the protection of Ireland’s inland fisheries resource and the prevention of environmental pollution. Inland fisheries Ireland is empowered to enforce these acts and undertake a variety of different types of protection patrols and inspections on different types of water bodies at different times of the year, as part of preventative measures to avoid pollution incidents on our rivers and lakes.
Of course, the matters under consideration here extend beyond just the remit of IFI to also encompass local authorities, the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, Uisce Éireann and other stakeholders so a cross-Government approach to preventing such pollution incidents and the causes of same continues to be crucial.
132. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he plans to bring forward changes to the public service pension to allow workers to work past their contracted retirement date, as per the recent announcement from the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14564/24]
View answerAs of 29 March 2024, all Permanent Defence Forces personnel who currently have a mandatory retirement age of less than 60, may remain in service until 60 subject to fulfilling certain existing criteria, for example physical and medical fitness.
As announced on 5 March 2024, in tandem with the changes made to the mandatory retirement age, a new fast accrual pensions' policy framework has been approved and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform is preparing the necessary legislation which, when enacted, will allow for a further increase in the mandatory retirement age for all Permanent Defence Force ranks to 62. I will work closely with the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform as his Department works to progress the legislative changes required to finalise the new framework.
133. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 13 of 28 February 2024, if he will report on the work of the Implementation Group established to implement the 12 recommendations intended to ensure that the Defence Forces medical policies and practices continually develop in light of best practice; the status of each of the 12 recommendations in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13645/24]
View answerA Working Group on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis in the Defence Forces presented its report and recommendations to the Minister with Responsibility for Defence in October 2017. A further working group was established with a view to examining and implementing these recommendations.
In January 2020, the Minister with Responsibility for Defence was informed by the military authorities that the instructions, issued by the Director of the Medical Branch of the Defence Forces, had been amended to provide for options on the specific malaria chemoprophylaxis to be used for deployments to sub-Saharan Africa.
As the Working Group report and its recommendations were prepared in the context of current litigation, they are legally privileged, and it would be inappropriate to comment further. The military authorities have advised that Defence Forces policy on the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis is fully aligned with UN and World Health Organisation guidelines.
134. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of troops serving at present on UN approved missions; the number of UN approved missions worldwide that Ireland does not have troops involved in due to lack of resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13666/24]
View answerAs of 5 April 2024, Ireland is contributing 419 personnel to 8 different missions throughout the world` and reflects the Government's continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security. The main overseas mission in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed is with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 345 personnel. Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various United Nations and OSCE missions and personnel to staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO/PfP and OSCE headquarters.
There are currently 11 UN Peacekeeping Operations active around the world: MINURSO (Western Sahara); UNMIK (Kosovo); UNMOGIP (India and Pakistan); UNFICYP (Cyprus); UNDOF (Syria); UNIFIL (Lebanon); UNTSO (Middle East); UNISFA (Abyei); UNMISS (South Sudan); MINUSCA (Central African Republic); and MINUSCO (Democratic Republic of Congo).
In addition to UN-led Peacekeeping Operations, the UN Security Council may, under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, also authorise missions led by others to achieve the same ends of maintaining or restoring international peace and security. There are a number of such missions currently authorised by the UN Security Council under Chapter VII, including ATMIS, which is an African Union-led multinational transition force in Somalia; EUFOR Operation Althea, which is an EU military deployment in Bosnia & Herzegovina overseeing the implementation of the peace agreement; and the NATO-led international peacekeeping force in Kosovo, KFOR. The UN Security Council has also approved a Multinational Security Support mission to Haiti, although this has not yet been deployed. In addition, UN Security Council Resolutions underpin the EU naval missions Operation Atalanta and Operation Irini.
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).
There are currently no plans to increase our commitment to UN peacekeeping in terms of participation in further missions. The Irish Defence Forces have recently withdrawn as planned from the UNDOF mission this month after over ten years of participation in this operation.
With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis. The changing nature of demands and potential future mission profiles need to be considered in the context of assets and capabilities which can be made available by the Defence Forces for overseas deployment, given existing operational demands at home and overseas.
Full details of all personnel currently serving in missions overseas are listed below.
MEMBERS OF THE PERMANENT DEFENCE FORCE SERVING OVERSEAS
As of 05 April 2024
|
UN MISSIONS |
|
|
UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) HQ UNIFIL 123rd Infantry Battalion UNIFIL Sector West HQ |
8 332 5 |
|
UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) Israel & Syria |
11 |
|
UNDOF (COS Staff/FHQ Staff - Camp Faouar - Bravo side) |
5 |
|
TOTAL |
361 |
|
UN MANDATED MISSIONS |
|
|
EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
5 |
|
KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) HQ |
13 |
|
Naval Service EU Mission (Op Irini OHQ -3, FHQ - 1 ) |
4 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF PERSONNEL SERVING WITH UN ENDORSED MISSIONS |
383 |
|
|
|
|
ORGANISATION FOR SECURITY AND CO-OPERATION IN EUROPE (OSCE) |
|
|
Staff Officer, High Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
EU MILITARY STAFF |
|
|
Brussels |
8 |
|
German Led Battle Group 2024-2,FHQ , Stadtallendorf |
9 |
|
MILITARY REPRESENTATIVES/ADVISERS/STAFF |
|
|
Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
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 |
6 |
|
TOTAL NUMBER OF DEFENCE FORCES PERSONNEL SERVING OVERSEAS |
419 |
135. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the amount spent by his Department on travel and accommodation costs associated with Ministerial visits abroad to date in 2024, in tabular form. [13801/24]
View answerI can confirm that here has been no travel or accommodation costs associated with Ministerial visits abroad to date in 2024 in my capacity as Minister for Defence.
136. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of properties either owned or leased by his Department, which are currently vacant; the length of time the properties have been vacant for; and the location of the properties, in tabular form. [13819/24]
View answerThe information sought by the Deputy could not be collated in the time frame and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy when available.
|
Address - Line 1 |
Address - Line 2 |
Address - Line 3 |
Notes |
Vested Defence |
Vested DPER |
|
Fort Templebreedy |
Crosshaven |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
1 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
3 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
4 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
7 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
8 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
9 Camp Field |
Collins Barracks |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
15 Haulbowline |
*Naval Base |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
16 Haulbowline |
*Naval Base |
Cork |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
17 Cathal Brugha |
Cathal Brugha Apts Rathmines |
Dublin |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
22 Cathal Brugha |
Cathal Brugha Apts Rathmines |
Dublin |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
23 Cathal Brugha |
Cathal Brugha Apts Rathmines |
Dublin |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
A House W Wing -Sarsfield House |
Cathal Brugha Barracks |
Dublin |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
C House E wing |
Cathal Brugha Barracks |
Dublin |
Uninhabitable |
0 |
1 |
|
1 Fire Station Villas |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 Fire Station Villas |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
4 Fire Station Villas |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
25 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
26 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
27 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
28 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
29 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
30 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
31 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
32 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
33 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
34 McDermott Tce |
McDermott Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
24 O'Higgins Rd |
Ceannt Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
25 O'Higgins Rd |
Ceannt Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
26 O'Higgins Rd |
Ceannt Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
32 O'Higgins Rd |
Ceannt Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
34 O'Higgins Rd |
Ceannt Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
40 O'Higgins Rd |
McDonagh Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
4 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
5 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
6 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
9 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
10 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
15 O'Higgins Tce |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
17 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
18 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
21 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
22 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
27 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
28 O'Higgins Tce |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
Dun Aillen |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
5 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
6 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
7 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
9 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
10 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
11 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
12 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
13 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
14 Pearse Tce |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 W.O.Quarters |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 W.O.Quarters |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 W.O.Quarters |
Hospital Area Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 W.O.Quarters |
Hospital Area Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
3 W.O.Quarters |
Hospital Area Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 W.O.Quarters |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 W.O.Quarters |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
40 W.O.Quarters |
Clarke Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
43 W.O.Quarters |
Clarke Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 W.O.Quarters |
McDonagh Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
Pumping Stations |
McDonagh Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
Canteen Managers |
Pearse Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
QM House |
Pearse Barracks Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 Connolly Villas |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 Connolly Villas |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
3 Connolly Villas |
Connolly Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
QM House |
McDonagh Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
1 Plunkett Villas |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
2 Plunkett Villas |
Plunkett Barracks Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
|
3 Plunkett Villas |
Plunkett Barracks, Curragh |
Kildare |
Uninhabitable |
1 |
0 |
137. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether the RTI unit has examined, and is satisfied, that member-based organisations and/or companies, either Irish or multi-national Irish based, with which it confers, consults or liaises on matters of defence and security, have no financial or other material interest in Israeli companies, companies in the OPT, or engage in activities beneficial to or related to the IDF or any other Israeli military or security operations, given Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza that fit the definition of Torture, War Crimes and Ethnic Cleansing, with ‘Plausible Genocide’ under active consideration by the ICJ. [13852/24]
View answerThe Research, Technology and Innovation Unit (RTI) within my Department carries out the role of Horizon Scanning. This includes consultation with Industry and Academia to maintain the capabilities of the Defence Forces to fulfil the roles as assigned by Government. This includes undertaking overseas Peace Support Operations.
RTI carries out its horizon scanning role in accordance with legal rules in place when dealing with Industry for procurement. In accordance with the terms of all UN, OSCE and EU arms embargos or restrictions. There are no such restrictions or embargos in place on Israeli companies.
In following these guidelines and codes, RTI must deal impartially with all Industry that are entitled to enter the Departments procurement competitions.
I am satisfied that this is the appropriate way in which to continue, rather than Ireland taking any unilateral decision to target individual companies or countries in that respect.
138. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether the self-styled Irish Defence and Security Association is receiving State funding, either directly as an organisation or through its membership companies; whether his Department and/or the Defence Forces themselves are satisfied that it is appropriate for any organisation or association that is not under the strict aegis of Ireland’s Minister for Defence and the Defence Forces themselves, to operate under a title and logo that could be mistaken for an official Irish authority in the critical and sensitive matters of the State’s security and defence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13853/24]
View answerThe Irish Defence and Security Association (IDSA) was established in 2021 with a mission “to ensure Ireland develops appropriate, leading edge and trusted defence and security capabilities in the land, sea, air, space and cyber domains, in order to protect our society, create jobs, drive research and enhance Ireland’s economic growth”.
National Defence Industry Associations’ (NDIA) are the norm in many EU member states, providing support to industry operating in defence markets in a number of ways, by creating networks, disseminating information and assisting contractors to find suitable sub-contractors. They are particularly important for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
I understand that the IDSA is funded through a membership model that is subscription based through member organisations/companies that are Irish or Irish based SME’s, Research Organisations and Multinational Cooperation’s. Membership of the IDSA is a matter for that Association.
In recent years the only state funding that my Department has provided in the area of defence research, was a contribution of €250,000 towards the €2.4 million prize fund for the Science Foundation Ireland – Defence Innovation Challenge which is an innovative programme with the overarching ambition to develop new technologies, aligned with our National Defence Policy and supporting Defence Forces capability requirements, that also have the potential to deliver significant societal impacts within Ireland. Challenges in five areas plus an open challenge on disruptive technologies, were presented to Irish research institutions. These proposals were then judged by an international panel of researchers in line with best academic practice.
Details of the shortlisted and successful projects can be found on the Science Foundation Ireland website.
My Department has no authority over the IDSA and whether or not their title or logo is appropriate is not a matter for my Department.
139. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether a feasibility study has been done on using the LÉ Eithne for cultural and educational purposes; if so, if he will publish the findings of that study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13854/24]
View answerThe former Naval Service flagship vessel LÉ Eithne was decommissioned in 2022. A number of organisations, including Dublin Port and the local authorities in Cork and Limerick, indicated their interest in taking LÉ Eithne as a museum piece / tourist attraction following her decommissioning. The Department of Defence engaged extensively with these interested parties but following, in some cases, lengthy discussions, all these parties withdrew their interest in taking the ship.
While my Department did not itself carry out a feasibility study in relation to using LÉ Eithne for cultural and educational purposes, I am informed that Dublin Port commissioned two reports in addition to a ship survey looking at the feasibility of taking LÉ Eithne as a historic museum ship in Dublin Port. However, Dublin Port subsequently withdrew their interest in taking the vessel.
When, despite the best efforts of all involved, these discussions were not successful in identifying an alternative use for LÉ Eithne post-decommissioning, I decided that the vessel should be disposed of by recycling in an environmentally sound manner along with two other decommissioned Naval Service vessels, LÉ Ciara and LÉ Orla.
Following a competitive process, officials from my Department have recently signed a contract for the removal of the ships from Cork Harbour for recycling in line with the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and relevant national regulations.
140. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of women currently serving in the Defence Forces and have served in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13855/24]
View answer154. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of females that joined Defence Forces from each general service recruitment campaign or cadet service recruitment campaigns in the years of 2023 and to-date in 2024, in tabular form. [14787/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 154 together.
The military authorities have provided the details in Table (A), setting out the number of women inducted as General Service Recruits (GSR) and Cadets in 2023 and in 2024 (as at 31 March); and Table (B), setting out the number of women serving in the Defence Forces for the past 5 years and in 2024 (as at 29 February - the latest date such figures are available for ).
Table (A): GSR and Cadet Female Inductions 2023 - 2024 (as at 31 March 2024)
|
Year |
GSR |
Cadets |
|
2023 |
23 |
10 |
|
2024* |
9 |
0** |
*As of 31 March 2024 ** 2024 Cadetship competition is yet to launch
Table B: Female PDF Strength 2019 – 2024 (as at 29 Feb 2024)
|
- |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024* |
|
Total |
598 |
603 |
598 |
564 |
559 |
555 |
*As of 29 February 2029
Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment within the general recruitment framework and the High Level Action Plan agreed by Government on the Commission on the Defence Forces contains a range of recommendations designed to assist in increasing female participation in the Defence Forces. The Government remains committed to increasing female participation rates at all levels.
141. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how many members of the Defence Forces are currently on sick leave due to long-Covid; the number in each of the past three years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13856/24]
View answerThe Military Authorities have advised that while the Defence Force's electronic health record system, 'Socrates,' accurately captures occurrences of COVID-19 over the last three years, it does not have a specific classification code for Long COVID-19.
Therefore, it is not possible to give accurate data to the Deputy on presentations of Long COVID-19 in the Defence Forces.
142. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence for an update on the Fire Station at the Curragh Camp [13857/24]
View answerI can advise that the Military authorities submitted on 27 February 2024 a recommendation on the future of the Fire Service in the Defence Forces Training Centre, Curragh Camp. My officials are considering same and have written to the Chief of Staff seeking further details as to the basis of their findings and have indicated that upon receipt of same it will also be necessary to establish Kildare County Council's formal position on the matter.
143. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether foreign-language learning is available and/or prioritised in the Defence Forces across all ranks and disciplines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13858/24]
View answerI am informed that foreign language learning is available and prioritised in the Defence Forces across all ranks and disciplines. This training is governed by the Foreign Language Training Policy, which states that the Defence Forces is committed to training personnel in modern foreign languages, under the following three pillars:
• Taught Group Foreign Language Training Courses: Conducted by approved Language Training Partners and open to all Defence Forces personnel. These courses are openly advertised to all personnel who have some knowledge of the language in question. The main effort of this approach is currently directed at the French language. These courses are conducted by Alliance Française, as required;
• Third Level Foreign Language Training: Officers attending full-time third-level Education programmes are encouraged to study modern foreign languages as part of their university education. The Defence Forces currently has seven (7) personnel participating in ERASMUS programmes overseas: four (4) in France, two (2) in Germany and one (1) in the Netherlands. Defence Forces personnel participating on third-level studies in a foreign language in their own time may apply for Defence Forces funding;
• Progressing identified Foreign Language Training competencies: This concentrates on identifying and progressing existing language skills. Personnel who wish to have their competency recorded will be invited to apply for a language evaluation and have their grading recorded. The Defence Forces will consider support for further language training for personnel with existing and assessed language skills.
The implementation of this policy, with priority given to the French language reflecting current and potential future operational deployments to regions where the French language is spoken, has facilitated the French language development roadmap.
In support of this, the Defence Forces conducts exchanges with the French Armed Forces, sending students and instructors to courses in France as well as facilitating French Armed Forces personnel continue language training in Ireland. Immersion training with different units of the French Army allows students to develop their French language skills in an authentic, mono-lingual environment which also enhances their cultural understanding of the French language and is in full accordance with the current Foreign Language Training Policy. There is currently one (1) Army Officer attending the French Army Command and Staff Course in L‘École du Guerre, St Cyr. The opportunity further strengthens the relationship between the Defence Forces with the French Military.
Arabic Language training is also provided for selected personnel prior to deploying in certain overseas appointments. In 2023, two (2) personnel underwent this training.
144. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how the increase in the raising of the mandatory retirement age in the Defence Forces to 60 years is expected to impact on retention of personnel in the coming five years; if he will publish any research undertaken on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13859/24]
View answerAs of 29 March 2024, all Permanent Defence Forces personnel who currently have a mandatory retirement age of less than 60, may remain in service until 60 subject to fulfilling certain existing criteria, for example physical and medical fitness.
This strategic move will have a two-fold effect. For the organisation, it will help to address, in part, the issue of retention by allowing experienced and skilled personnel to remain in their positions for longer, thereby retaining valuable organisational knowledge, providing continuity and contributing to enhanced training experiences for new recruits. For Defence Forces personnel, the move supports career longevity and provides personnel with the opportunity to continue to contribute meaningfully to the organisation.
In addition, the increase in the mandatory retirement age has facilitated an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 for those roles with a current recruitment age below 39 years.
The impact of the revised retirement age on retention in the coming five years will be closely and regularly monitored and updates provided at appropriate intervals.
My commitment to resolving the recruitment and retention crisis in the Permanent Defence Forces is unwavering. The numbers leaving the Defence Forces exceed the numbers recruited year on year, resulting in a continued decline in the overall strength level. The decision to increase the mandatory retirement age is part of an overall effort to remove any potential obstacles to recruiting and retaining personnel.
Furthermore, a new fast accrual pensions’ policy framework has been approved and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform is preparing the necessary legislation which, when enacted, will allow for a further increase in the mandatory retirement age for all Permanent Defence Force ranks to 62.
145. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence whether he will support the desire of the Oversight Group to exercise maximum independence and authority in all its business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13860/24]
View answerThe report of the Independent Review Group (IRG) established to examine dignity and equality issues in the Defence Forces was published, following Government approval, on 28 March 2023. The Government agreed to progress the 13 recommendations contained in the Report.
One of the first actions taken in this regard following publication of the report was the establishment of an External Oversight Body, initially on a non-statutory basis, and its Terms of Reference were approved on 12 July 2023.
The role of the External Oversight Body, which is chaired by Professor Brían MacCraith and comprises six other members, is to oversee the implementation of relevant recommendations made in the IRG Report, to increase transparency and accountability in the Defence Forces and to bring about necessary changes to the workplace culture and behaviour in the Defence Forces. To date, the External Oversight Body has met on 21 occasions and last November I received the Body's first written report while I have also met with Professor MacCraith on a number of occasions.
Last December, the Government approved the General Scheme of the Defence Amendment Bill 2023, which includes provision for the establishment of the External Oversight Body on a statutory basis. As such, it is intended that the External Oversight Body will have all the powers typically held by a statutory body. The draft legislation has recently been the subject of Pre-legislative Scrutiny by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence.
Following publication of the General Scheme, the views of the External Oversight Body have been sought in relation to the draft legislation and these have been carefully considered in the context of finalising the draft Bill. In this regard, it is my intention that the Bill will provide that the Body shall have the power to initiate a review, and to make such recommendations as it deems appropriate, on any matter related to its functions. Moreover, in relation to independence, in line with the published General Scheme, the draft Bill will also expressly provide that the External Oversight Body shall be independent in the performance of its functions.
The work of the External Oversight Body is future focused and is a key driver in the implementation of the necessary cultural transformation throughout the Defence Forces, including addressing issues relating to dignity at work. A significant programme of reform and culture change is being prioritised to ensure that the Defence Forces is an equal opportunities employer, is reflective of contemporary Irish society and provides a safe workplace. The External Oversight Body has a crucial role in overseeing and monitoring implementation of this transformation by the Defence Forces and in advising the Minister for Defence on progress.
146. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is aware of a recruitment drive by the Air Corps and Defence Forces (details supplied); his views on whether Ireland as a neutral country that a method of recruiting children in schools is not appropriate; and if he will instruct Defence Forces to remove any recruitment propaganda from schools. [13989/24]
View answerThe Defence Forces do not recruit children and the minimum age of recruitment, for both the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force, is set at 18 years.
In line with many other potential employers, the Defence Forces do demonstrate the opportunities and skills a career in the Defence Forces offers to future school leavers. This is achieved by providing schools with relevant material such as posters, booklets etc and through school visits, attendance at recruitment and career fairs/events and engagement with career guidance counsellors to assist with queries on Defence Forces careers.
147. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if serving members of the Defence Forces who have not received the Covid-19 vaccination are eligible for overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13994/24]
View answerAll Defence Forces personnel deploying overseas are required to have received the primary schedule of COVID-19 vaccinations.
However, the Defence Forces have confirmed that the booster vaccinations are no longer mandatory for personnel who are under 50 years of age and who are not immunocompromised and who do not have a medical condition that puts them at a higher risk of severe Covid-19 infection.
148. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when two Airbus C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft delivered to the Air Corps in June and October of 2023, will reach full operational capacity and be available for Maritime Defence and Security Operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14035/24]
View answerThe introduction into service of an aircraft is a multi-phased process that comprises a number of steps before its full completion.
The Airbus C295 Marine Patrol Aircraft (MPA) fleet of two aircraft is currently at Initial Operating Capability (IOC) Level 1 for Maritime Defence and Security Operations (MDSO) in the Irish EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone), with both aircraft presently undertaking operational taskings.
The Air Corps are working towards achieving an expanded IOC Level 2 in the near-term future, which will result in increased availability of the aircraft for operations, with Full Operational Capability (FOC) to follow shortly thereafter.
149. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 139 of 20 March 2024, if he will provide the contact details on file with the Air Corps for a club (details supplied) that hosted a civilian aircraft at Casement Aerodrome in September 2004 to include the officers of the club and the registered address of the club. [14290/24]
View answerThe information sought has been requested from the Air Corps and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy when available.
150. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when he expects to bring forward the legislation he has stated that he is preparing with regard to the Defence Act 1960 and changes to the Triple Lock arrangements; if he plans to bring this before the Houses of the Oireachtas prior to the summer 2024 recess; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14409/24]
View answerThe so-called Triple Lock mechanism sets out the conditions for the deployment of Defence Forces' personnel for peacekeeping operations overseas. These include that the operation must be mandated by the UN, (either by the Security Council or General Assembly), approved by the Government and it must be approved by way of resolution of Dáil Éireann, where the size of the Defence Force contribution is more than 12 personnel.
Last year’s Consultative Forum on International Security Policy featured a well-informed discussion on the issue of UN peacekeeping and the Triple Lock, which was reflected in the Chair’s report. As I have set out in the Dáil, we clearly need a new process to replace the current system which effectively allows UN Security Council members to bind Ireland’s hands in its international engagement. Arising from this, I have instructed officials in my Department to prepare legislative proposals without delay that would govern future overseas deployments of our Defence Forces. Work on the preparation of those legislative proposals is advancing, with a view to proposals being brought to Government very shortly. It is important that I emphasise, however, that any legislative proposals will remain fully consistent with the principles of the UN Charter and international law.
As the Deputy will be aware, the General Scheme of any Bill will be brought for pre-legislative scrutiny consideration by the Oireachtas Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence to determine if pre-legislative scrutiny is required. Any proposals agreed by Government will then have to be presented to, debated and approved by the Dáil and Seanad, thus providing the Oireachtas with ample opportunity to scrutinise any such proposals.
Any modification to the Triple Lock will continue to require Government and Dáil approval, where appropriate, for the dispatch of Defence Forces’ personnel to take part in peacekeeping and similar missions and will do nothing to change Ireland’s traditional position of military neutrality, which is characterised by Ireland's non-participation in any military alliance.
151. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report the participation of the Naval Service in Operation Irini; the component aspects of the mission and those which Ireland has taken part in; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14524/24]
View answerOperation Irini is a UN mandated EU Naval mission in the eastern Mediterranean and its primary task is the implementation of the UN arms embargo on Libya using aerial, satellite and maritime assets. The mission was launched on 31 March 2020 with the aim creating the conditions for a permanent ceasefire in Libya by stemming the flow of weapons into the country.
Ireland currently has three members of the Defence Forces deployed to the Operational Headquarters of the Operation Irini mission in Rome in staff officer posts and a further officer is assigned to the Floating Headquarters. Government approval was secured for these appointment on 18 May 2020.
Additionally in 2023, following Government and Dáil approval, the L.É. William Butler Yeats and a crew of 58 personnel deployed as part of Operation Irini for a period of 46 days from 21 June- 24 July 2023 demonstrating Ireland’s support for the important role the EU can play in support of international peace and security.
In addition to its primary task, Operation Irini has a number of secondary tasks: monitoring of oil smuggling from Libya; capacity-building of the Libyan Coastguard; and the detection and monitoring of human smuggling networks.
The current mandate of Op Irini expires in March 2025 and a mid-term assessment of the mission was recently reported on at the European Council. A strategic review of the mission is due to take place at the end of 2024.
152. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if his Department will award retired and former soldiers the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal if their service had concluded by 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14590/24]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government of 2016 provided for the award of the 1916 Commemorative medal to all Defence Forces personnel, Permanent and Reserve, who were recorded as being in service in the course of 2016. This was a special acknowledgement from the Government to the members of Óglaigh na hÉireann who served during the centenary year of 2016. The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was awarded as a commemorative medal, personal to an individual’s service in the Defence Forces in the course of 2016.
There are no plans to award the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal to former members of the Defence Forces. Discussions took place between the Department and the recognised Veterans’ Associations, namely the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA), the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (ONE) and the Association of Retired Commissioned Officers (ARCO), to explore alternative means of recognition of the contribution of veterans to the centenary commemorative events in 2016.
Following these discussions, it was agreed to present a framed medal with an accompanying citation to each of the Veterans Associations in recognition of the significant contribution of members of the three organisations to the 1916 centenary commemorative events and their service to the State. In addition, plaques were given to each of ONE's Branches and each of IUNVA's Posts around the country.
153. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if officials from his Department and or military officials have met with senior officials from Airbus to discuss the progression of the new AirBusC295W aircraft coming into the Air Corps in 2025 in the past six months. [14786/24]
View answerIn accordance with established project management protocol and contractual arrangements, officials from the Department of Defence and Officers from the Air Corps are in contact with Airbus on a continuing basis in relation to the progression of the Military Transport variant C-295W aircraft which is presently under development at Airbus and due to be delivered in 2025.
155. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is aware of a recent incident resulting in the emergency landing of an Air Corps aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14961/24]
View answerI am advised by military management that a comprehensive flight safety investigation was immediately initiated by the Irish Air Corps into this incident, and this investigation is ongoing. Given the nature of the incident, the investigation is being led by the Air Corps Flight Safety Officer in accordance with Air Regulations Manual Part F - Flight Safety, Section 7 Accident and Incident Investigation.
156. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his intentions to alter recruitment and retirement ages regarding the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14962/24]
View answerLast month, I announced that the mandatory retirement and maximum recruitment ages for Reserve Defence Force (RDF) personnel were being brought in line with recently announced changes for Permanent Defence Force (PDF) personnel. The measures came into effect on 29 March 2024.
In the case of both the RDF and the PDF, the mandatory retirement age has been raised 60. This applies to all ranks that previously had a mandatory retirement age below 60.
The maximum recruitment age for the RDF and the PDF has also been increased to 39.
The regeneration of the RDF is a key focus for this Government and these changes are an important step in that process.
It is essential that the Defence Forces recruit, retain, and develop for the future, skilled personnel and key specialists. A vital element of this will be the development of a Reserve Defence Force that can seamlessly train, operate and deploy on a voluntary basis, with the Permanent Defence Force, both here and overseas.
157. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his proposals to address delays regarding administration and medical testing which are unduly slowing down the recruitment of Reserve Defence Forces personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14963/24]
View answerThe Government remains committed to bolstering the numbers in the RDF. In that context the upper recruitment and mandatory retirement ages for the RDF were recently increased to match those for the Permanent Defence Force.
The structure and strength of the RDF is a key focus of the Defence Forces Office of Reserve Affairs (ORA) which was established recently in line with a recommendation from the Commission on the Defence Forces Report (CODF).
A recruitment drive for the RDF was launched last year in October 2023, which was advertised across a number of media channels.
The induction of personnel has been facilitated through the implementation of the Managed Induction Process whereby each applicant is assigned a Recruitment Liaison Officer (RLO) who maintains contact with them throughout the induction process. The aim of this close liaison is to facilitate an expeditious and efficient recruitment process from application to attestation. 41 RDF units are currently open for applications from potential recruits. Each of these units has at least one Recruitment Liaison Officer.
This competition is ongoing and I am advised that the ORA are supporting the induction process at all stages. To date, work continues on the 621 live applications currently proceeding through the system, with over 389 interviews concluded, 299 fitness tests, 81 part 1 medicals completed, 153 with both parts 1 and 2 medicals completed, and 40 applicants already attested.
Given the voluntary nature of RDF service and the fact that applicants have other competing responsibilities, there will always be a challenge in terms of availability of the potential recruit when the slot for their medical is available and vice versa.
Some measures have been taken, however, to improve the administration of medicals. For example, work has been completed on streamlining the two-stage medical process and fitness testing is now completed before medicals; an on boarding process is in place for suitable candidates which enables them to undergo approved early phase recruit training which helps to maintain their connection with the RDF while they await the medical process.
The Chief of Staff also approved the assignment of additional medical resources to ensure the completion of further induction medicals in April 2024.
The ultimate goal is the development of a Reserve Force that can seamlessly train, operate and deploy on a voluntary basis, with the Permanent Defence Force, both on-island and overseas. The amendment in 2021 to the Defence Act pertaining to the Reserve provides for this.
I would like to assure the Deputy that it is my aim, and that of the Chief of Staff, to ensure that the regeneration of the RDF remains a key goal in 2024 and beyond.
