Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 July 2017
1730. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to deal with the conciliation and arbitration issues raised by PDFORRA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35361/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Defence (Amendment) Act 1990 and Defence Force Regulations S6 provided for the establishment of representative associations for members of the Permanent Defence Force. The associations that have since been established are RACO (for commissioned officers) and PDFORRA (for enlisted personnel).
A Scheme of Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) for members of the Permanent Defence Force was established in 1993 and provides a formal mechanism for the Defence Forces representative associations. The purpose of the scheme is to provide a means for the determination of claims and proposals from the Associations relating to remuneration and conditions of service.
Having regard to commitments made under pay agreements, members of the Permanent Defence Force can make representations in relation to their pay and conditions of service through their representative bodies, PDFORRA and RACO. Where agreement is not reached it is open to both official and representative sides to refer the matter to an adjudicator or an arbitration Board to settle the matter.
Officials from my Department continue to work with the Representative Associations in a positive and collaborative process within the C&A Scheme to resolve issues.
I can advise the Deputy that I plan to initiate a review of the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force, with the review to commence before the end of 2017. The output from the Working Group on Industrial Relations Structures for an Garda Síochána, which has been established by the Department of Justice and Equality, will be considered as part of the review of the arrangements for the Permanent Defence Force.
