Andrew Boylan
Ceist:92 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the new conciliation and arbitration scheme in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26760/98]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme.
Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:146 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the new conciliation and arbitration scheme in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26933/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 146 together.
Agreement has been reached with both Permanent Defence Force representative associations on the establishment of a revised conciliation and arbitration scheme for members of the PDF.
Various concerns had been expressed about the traditional model of conciliation and arbitration schemes in the public service, including the PDF. These concerns included an over reliance on comparability, an over dependence on an arbitrator acting alone, an adversarial approach, a lack of transparency and the absence of any apparent linkage between special pay increases and productivity. The recent pay discussions with both associations was an opportune time to review the situation and to consider methods of pay determination which will apply in the future. Many of these issues have been addressed in the new scheme which will provide a more transparent and realistic system and which will place greater emphasis on constructive negotiation rather than adjudication to resolve issues.
I am satisfied that this new conciliation and arbitration scheme, together with the opportunities afforded by the new partnership approach, provides adequate facilities for the associations to raise issues of concern to them. A copy of the new scheme will be forwarded to the Deputy within the coming days.