Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 October 2012
193. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Defence his views on the fact that the PDFORRE, the representative association for soldiers, sailors, and aircrew, has recently outlined their opposition to further cuts to their members in view of the fact that their pay has already been reduced by 20 percent due to cuts in the past couple of years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43549/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraRobust systems are in place within the Defence Organisation to ensure that issues of concern to members of the Defence Forces, including PDFORRA members, are brought to my attention, as appropriate. My officials meet regularly with PDFORRA in relation to Croke Park implementation. They also meet regularly in various committee and council meetings under the Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme. At these meetings PDFORRA raise issues of concern to their members, including that of pay. I am regularly briefed by my officials and by the military authorities including on ongoing progress on the modernisation agenda and the issues and concerns of PDFORRA. I wish to acknowledge the robust, positive and constructive engagement of PDFORRA, on behalf of their members, under the provisions of the Croke Park Agreement and to advise that PDFORRA also clearly articulated such concerns at their recent ADC at which the Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D, and officials of my Department were present.
