The White Paper on Defence sets the defence policy agenda for the next ten years. As a subset of the totality of the work being carried out to implement the White Paper, nearly 90 actions or projects were specifically identified. The extract on page 73 (Chapter 7) of the White Paper, to which the Deputy refers, does not relate to an individual review but rather encompasses the 29 White Paper projects identified as pertaining to Chapter 7.
Of these 29 projects, work has been initiated and is underway on 11 projects. These projects range from a commissioning from the ranks programme to a project aimed at developing further initiatives to encourage more women to apply for the Defence Forces & participate at all ranks. A gap analysis of skills sets in the Permanent Defence Forces has also been brought forward.
Implementation of all remaining projects will be carried out on a phased basis over the remainder of 10 year programme period. This process is being kept under review and will be subject to change as issues arise and other business dictates.
Other HR reviews and revision, outside of these 29 projects, have been undertaken, i.e. the criteria for extending service beyond twelve years have been revised and an examination of retirement ages for enlisted personnel has been prioritised. The effect of the application of the Working Time Directive to the Defence Forces is expected to be a consideration in any review of Defence Forces Human Resources strategy. Furthermore the military authorities have introduced additional initiatives to enhance work-life balance and this is also to be welcomed.
Last year I initiated a review of the C&A Scheme for the Permanent Defence Force and I have recently received the report from the independent chair, Mr. Gerard Barry. I am currently reviewing the recommendations contained therein and I look forward to engaging fully with all parties in progressing reforms to the existing Scheme.
