Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 October 2018
84. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if regulations that exclude members of the Defence Forces from participating in marches or parades will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39999/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraGiven the unique roles assigned to the Defence Forces, there are a range of restrictions that apply to members of the Defence Forces relating to political and industrial relations matters.
Section 103 of the Defence Act prohibits members of the Permanent Defence Force from membership of, or subscription to, any political organisation or society; DFR A9 prohibits participation by uniformed members of the Defence Forces in any demonstration, meeting or function of a political character; DFR A7 prohibits at any time unauthorised communications that pertain to service matters by members of the Defence Forces. Members of the Defence Forces are also prohibited from striking. There are no plans to review this legislation.
In recognition of these restrictions, there is a statutory based system of representation and a dedicated conciliation and arbitration scheme which provides the framework for claims regarding pay and conditions for members of the Permanent Defence Force. Under these arrangements PDFORRA and RACO are the representative bodies for members of the Permanent Defence Force. In addition, there is also statutory provision for dealing with complaints by members of the Defence Forces including a dedicated Ombudsman for the Defence Forces.
The Department of Defence, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and military management continue to fully engage with PDFORRA and RACO through the C&A scheme on matters relating to pay and conditions.
