John Lahart
Ceist:79. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Defence if personnel in full-time induction training can now be deployed on military service; and if they will now be paid the military service allowance. [36618/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 17 November 2020
Ceisteanna (79)
Freagraí scríofa
Members of the PDF, when not deployed overseas, are engaged in a range of activites including operations and training, and are available for service at all times. Personnel undergoing induction training are not routinely deployed on military service but can be if required.
The circumstances facing the State with the COVID 19 virus pandemic has placed unprecedented demands on the principal response agencies and the health service in particular. The Defence Forces are providing supports, across a wide range of areas, to the civil authorities as part of the State's response to the COVID 19 virus.
The Maintenance of Essential Services Allowance (MESA) is paid to members of the Defence Forces who are deployed on occasion to support the Civil Authorities, across a wide range of scenarios. It is paid in addition to basic pay.
Military Service Allowance is paid to all members of the Permanent Defence Force, up to and including the rank of Colonel, who have completed their training.
This matter is currently the subject of a claim through the Conciliation and Arbitration scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force. As discussions in the scheme are confidential to the parties, it would not be appropriate to comment further.