Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 February 2017
282. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will sanction an amendment to the headdress uniform (details supplied) for use by the Reserve Defence Force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6556/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe issue of military dress is a matter for the appropriate military authorities, in line with the relevant Defence Forces Regulations and Administrative Instructions, which set out in detail what can be worn by military personnel and when. Defence Force Regulations clearly distinguish between the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force. The Defence Force Regulations define both entities and therefore, it is considered to be prudent to identify both in regard to dress.
Peak Caps are not part of the issue to RDF members and I am informed there are currently no plans to amend this provision.
However, I am informed that a temporary derogation in this regard was granted by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) to a limited number of RDF members, who were selected to march in the Centenary Easter Sunday Parade in Dublin in 2016, for ceremonial reasons. This derogation ended after the parade.
