Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 April 2019
72. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces members who left the Defence Forces but subsequently returned (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15361/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is a scheme in place which facilitates the re-entry of former Officers of the PDF. This arose from the difficulties posed in the past in terms of processing applications for re-entry. Previously, in the absence of a standard policy for dealing with requests to re-enter, each case was dealt with on an individual basis and governed by the rules, regulations and circumstances that applied at the time.
The processing of such applications in the absence of a defined policy framework posed a number of difficulties such as defining procedures, identifying the requirements and needs of the organisation and agreeing terms and conditions with the individual. In order to allow for a transparent scheme to facilitate the re-entry of former Officers of the PDF, a policy framework, setting out terms and conditions was necessary.
The terms and conditions for the recommissioning scheme include the provision that the re-commissioning of former officers of the PDF shall only be considered in specific circumstances. These are where the Chief of Staff has identified a deficiency in personnel, military capability or expertise in the PDF, that cannot be resolved in a sustainable or timely manner from within existing personnel resources.
Recommissioned officers will be offered a short service commission for a period of 3 years and in that period they cannot compete for promotion, nor will they block a promotion opportunity for existing Officers. The recommissioned Officers may only be offered a substantive appointment after 3 years on the advice of the Chief of Staff and Secretary General.
This provides a fair and balanced approach to both the former officer and existing members. It is not realistic to suggest that vacancies should be maintained indefinitely for the purpose of ensuring promotions for existing members. To date, the number of expressions of interest is in low single figures.
While this scheme is in place for former Officers of the PDF, the attendant scheme for enlisted personnel is still being progressed and will involve a change in Regulations.
