Tuesday, 29 Jun 2021

Written Answers Nos. 21-40

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (21, 43)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

21. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Defence the status of the Commission on the Defence Forces. [34600/21]

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

43. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the work of the Commission on the Defence Forces; when the work of the Commission will conclude; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34625/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 43 together.

The Programme for Government committed to an independent Commission to undertake a comprehensive review of the Defence Forces and include the following matters;

- Arrangements for the effective defence of the country at land, air and sea.

- Structure and size of the Defence Forces encompassing capabilities, structures and staffing.

- Appropriate governance and high level command and control.

- Pay and allowances structures.

- Recruitment, retention and career progression.

- Leverage the capabilities of the Reserve Defence Force in their supports to the Permanent Defence Force and make service in the RDF more attractive.

This independent Commission on the Defence Forces was established by Government in December 2020, with a mandate to report within 12 months. The Government also approved the Terms of Reference, based on the Programme for Government, and the membership of the Commission. The Commission’s overall approach will be guided and informed by both the White Paper on Defence 2015 and the White Paper Update 2019. The work of the Commission will inform the future development of the Defence Forces.

As part of a broader consultation process, the Commission invited submissions from individuals and organisations on issues relevant to its Terms of Reference. The Commission received over 500 submissions, a number of which have recently been published on their website.

The Commission has been established as an independent body and, while it is a matter entirely for the Commission, I understand that the Commission has met with a broad stakeholder group including the Defence Forces Representative Associations, commissioned and enlisted members of the Defence Forces, senior officials and personnel from my Department and the Defence Forces as well as other groups. Site visits to Military locations by members of the Commission have already taken place and I understand that further site visits recommenced in June 2021 and will continue over the Summer if Covid restrictions permit.

The Chairman of the Commission Mr. Aidan O'Driscoll also met with members of the Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence in April to discuss the on-going work of the Commission.

The establishment of an independent Commission on the Defence Forces underpins the Government's commitment to ensuring that the Defence Forces are fit for purpose, both in terms of meeting immediate requirements and also in terms of seeking to develop a longer term vision beyond 2030. The Commission is to submit their report by the end of the year and it will be considered fully at that time.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (22, 28, 52)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

22. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent of current and or proposed overseas troop deployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34603/21]

Thomas Gould

Ceist:

28. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Defence the number of members of the Defence Forces in the Lebanon currently; and the number considered a full and complete cohort. [34612/21]

James Lawless

Ceist:

52. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel currently on overseas service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34676/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 28 and 52 together.

As of 8 June 2021, Ireland is contributing 564 personnel to 10 different missions throughout the world. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 337 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 136 personnel.

The UNIFIL mission in Lebanon continues to represent Ireland's largest overseas deployment and on 4 May 2021 the Government approved the continued participation of the Defence Forces in UNIFIL for a further 12 month period. The Irish contingent serves as part of a joint Ireland/Poland Battalion, with additional officers from both Hungary and Malta. The 118th Infantry Battalion deployed to UNIFIL during May on a six-month tour of duty. The full cohort of personnel provided for as part Ireland's commitment to the joint Ireland/Poland Battalion, comprises three hundred and forty one Irish personnel and eleven personnel from Malta.

In relation to UNDOF, Defence Forces personnel are currently based in Camp Faouar on the Syrian side of the area of separation. On 9 June 2021, the Government approved the continued participation of the Defence Forces in UNDOF for a 12 month period up to June 2022.

Other missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the EU Training Mission in Mali (EUTM Mali) with 20 personnel; MINUSMA, the UN authorised operation in Mali with 14 personnel, the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNTSO) in Israel and Syria with 12 personnel, the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) with 2 personnel, the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) with 3 personnel; the EUFOR mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina with 5 personnel, the NATO-led international security presence (KFOR) in Kosovo with 13 personnel and the EU Naval mission (Operation Irini) with 3 personnel. Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various United Nations and OSCE missions and personnel to staff appointments at UN, EU, NATO/PfP and OSCE headquarters.

The Department of Defence constantly reviews the deployment of Defence Forces personnel overseas. With regard to any future deployments of Defence Forces personnel overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Ireland has always been a strong supporter of the United Nations and UN Peacekeeping. Our commitment and support for the primary role of the United Nations, in the maintenance of international peace and security, is expressed in Ireland's long-standing tradition of participating in UN peacekeeping operations. This commitment is also expressed in our engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (23)

Barry Cowen

Ceist:

23. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Defence the status of the implementation of the Strengthening our Defence Forces - Implementation Plan. [34679/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

As the Deputy will be aware, the Report of the Public Service Pay Commission (PSPC) on Recruitment and Retention in the Defence Forces was published on the 4th of July 2019. The Report was accepted in full by the Government at that time and, to facilitate implementation, an extensive High Level Plan titled "Strengthening our Defence Forces – Phase One” was also agreed and published on the same date.

There are fifteen projects in total, the status of which is as follows.

The immediate pay measures set out in the plan i.e. an increase in Military Service Allowance, the reversal of 10% cuts to allowances under the Haddington Road Agreement, and the restoration of weekend premium rates for overtime were implemented immediately upon their acceptance by the PDF Representative Associations in late 2019. A service commitment scheme for pilots was also re-introduced, with very positive uptake.

On the project Review of Technical Pay Groups 2 – 6, sanction has recently been received from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to proceed with the recommendations in the report. This will now be progressed through the Department’s Conciliation and Arbitration Process.

The Review of Pay Structures project, led by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, was intended to examine pay structures in the Defence Forces and to fall under the new public service pay agreement “Building on Momentum”. However, in the intervening period, the Commission on the Defence Forces was tasked with examining pay structures and also with some aspects of pay under the sectoral bargaining arrangements of this agreement.

The recommendations of a further project dealing with incentivised long service arrangements for NCOs and other ranks, will be considered in the context of the sectoral bargaining element of “Building on Momentum”.

The project relating to Bespoke Management training for leaders and managers was completed in July 2020. The project on Non-Pay Retention Measures in the PDF was completed in October 2020. The Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy was launched by me on 2nd December 2020. A further project to develop a Professional Military Education strategy was completed in March 2021 and the Strategy will be launched by me in the very near future. The project relating to additional specialist posts for high turnover/long lead in appointments was finalised in April 2021.

The report relating to the review of recruitment in the PDF has been completed and will be submitted for my approval imminently.

Of the two outstanding projects, the project examining Barriers to Extended Participation in the PDF was split into two phases. Phase 1, focussed on reviewing mandatory retirement ages for Officers and is nearing completion pending clarification from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform on a matter relating to pension rules.

Phase 2 of this project, to examine the contracts of service for enlisted personnel, has commenced and is at an advanced stage. It had previously been agreed with PDFORRA that enlisted privates and corporals who had reached 21 years’ service, could remain in service until they reach age 50 until end 2022. Sergeants are also permitted to serve beyond 50 until that date. These measures gave this phase of the review scope to take place in an extended timeframe.

The final project, looking at the embedding of strategic workforce planning in the Defence Forces has commenced and its work is ongoing. A detailed supply side analysis has been completed and the next phase, an examination of the demand side, will commence shortly. The work has been facilitated, to date, by an external HR advisor. As this is a long term project it will be progressed through the joint civil/military Strategic Human Resources Group.

Legislative Programme

Ceisteanna (24)

Violet-Anne Wynne

Ceist:

24. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Defence the status of the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2020. [34627/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

The purpose of the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2020 is to make a number of miscellaneous amendments to the Defence Act to update certain provisions in order to better reflect the current operational practices of the Defence Forces.

The principal issues dealt with by this legislation relate to overseas operations as well as removing provisions in the Defence Act relating to the enlistment of minors.

In addition, the opportunity has been taken to make a number of other minor amendments to the Defence Act.

I gave an undertaking during the Committee Stage debate that I would introduce Report Stage amendments to enable the Reserve Defence Force to be deployed in support of the Permanent Defence Force at home and overseas.

I received Government approval for the drafting of amendments to the Bill on that basis.

The drafting of the amendments concluded recently and the Report Stage debate is scheduled to proceed tomorrow evening (30 June 2021).

While not wishing to pre-empt the Report Stage debate, I can say that the Report Stage amendments will enhance the role of the Reserve Defence Force by removing the current legislative restrictions within the Defence Acts on the activities it performs including the restriction on serving overseas.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (25, 46)

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Ceist:

25. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Defence the steps being taken to retain Defence Forces officers following a survey (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34602/21]

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Ceist:

46. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the provisions he will put in place to prevent the haemorrhage of talent for the other ranks in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34710/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 46 together.

The survey highlighted by the Deputy, mentions a number of matters which are being actively addressed in the normal course of business of the Department on an ongoing basis.

A serving member can choose to leave the Permanent Defence Force for a number of reasons. A buoyant employment economy can also pose problems in the retention of highly trained and experienced Defence Forces personnel, as this training and experience makes them more attractive to private sector employers.

The Government has fully acknowledged the recruitment and retention issues affecting both officers and enlisted personnel which have impacted operational capacity of the Defence Forces over recent years. In response, a range of actions have been progressed to address these issues.

The report of the Public Service Pay Commission (PSPC) on retention and recruitment in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) contained a wide range of recommendations to address those difficulties and these have been progressed through the High Level Implementation Plan "Strengthening Our Defence Forces".

Immediate benefits have included a 10% increase in Military Service Allowance; the restoration to pre-Haddington Road levels of certain allowances and the restoration of premium rates for certain weekend duties. Members of the Defence Forces have also received the benefits of Public Service Pay Agreements with further increases available under the new Pay Agreement, should it be accepted by the Defence Forces Representative Associations.

Work has also progressed on a broad range of non-pay measures in line with the PSPC recommendations, including in workforce planning; enhanced professional military education; bespoke leadership training; development of a mental health and wellbeing strategy; a review of barriers to extended participation in the PDF (including the possibility of extending retirement ages) and consideration of the provision of additional specialist posts in certain areas.

A Service Commitment Scheme for pilots, introduced in 2019, has had a stabilising effect on Air Corp pilot numbers, with 25 officers currently participating. A further iteration of the Scheme scheduled in 2021. A Naval Service Sea-going Service Commitment Scheme was also introduced this year with 77 applications so far received. A sea going naval personnel tax credit of €1,270, which was applied in the 2020 tax year, has been extended for the 2021 tax year, and has been increased to €1,500.

The introduction of schemes to allow for the re-commissioning of former Officers and the re-enlistment of former enlisted personnel of the PDF have assisted in addressing particular skills gaps and a range of direct entry specialist competitions have been initiated as a further means to fill critical positions. Furthermore, the upper age limit for both direct entry Naval Service and Air Corps technical appointments has recently been increased to 29 years.

The Deputy will be aware that as part of the terms of reference of the Independent Commission on the Defence Forces, the Commission will consider and recommend appropriate turnover and retention approaches, having regard to work undertaken to date, and international best practice, to deliver the capabilities required of a modern military force.

There is no quick fix to the challenges facing the Defence Forces today. Whilst there has been significant work undertaken to date, it will take time to see the full effect of the measures introduced.

Working closely with the Secretary General and the Chief of Staff, and a range of key stakeholders, I am confident that the current challenges facing the Defence Forces can be overcome.

Question No. 26 answered with Question No. 19.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (27, 32, 33)

Pádraig O'Sullivan

Ceist:

27. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence when a decision will be made regarding the status of Defence Forces members enlisted since 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34709/21]

Peadar Tóibín

Ceist:

32. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Defence if he will allow for personnel on post-1994 contracts to remain part of the Defence Forces if they are fit, healthy and capable as opposed to being automatically discharged if not sergeants by December 2022. [34598/21]

Cathal Berry

Ceist:

33. Deputy Cathal Berry asked the Minister for Defence the number of enlisted Defence Forces personnel who will be forced to retire early unless changes are made to the post-1994 service contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34704/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 27, 32 and 33 together.

Military life places unique demands on individuals and it is necessary that Defence Forces personnel are prepared to meet the challenges of all military operations. To this end, it is vital the age and health profile of personnel be such as to ensure that operational capability and effectiveness are not compromised in any way. For this reason compulsory retirement ages for ranks in the Permanent Defence Force are considerably lower than in other employments.

The age and fitness profile of the Permanent Defence Force was an issue of serious concern during the 1990's and was the subject of severe criticism in a series of external reports such as those compiled by Price Waterhouse Consultants and the Efficiency Audit Group. One of the key areas identified for urgent action was the development of a manpower policy with an emphasis on lowering the age profile of Permanent Defence Force personnel.

The White Paper on Defence (2015) states that retirement ages and/or upper service limits of Defence Forces’ personnel of all ranks will continue to be kept under review and determined in accordance with key considerations such as manpower policy requirements, operational needs and international best practice.

The High Level Plan - "Strengthening Our Defence Forces" provides for actions or projects to be undertaken to deliver on the Public Service Pay Commission (PSPC) recommendations. A project to consider options to tackle barriers to extended participation in the PDF (including the possibility of extending retirement ages for members of the PDF) is underway. Civil and Military staff in the Department are considering these matters in the context of an ongoing review.

The Review will take into consideration the recommendations from an Adjudication in 2015, arising from a claim PDFORRA made through the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force. It was agreed at that time that Privates and Corporals in receipt of Technical Pay Group 3 or higher may stay in service to age 50 subject to meeting certain specified criteria.

The Adjudicator recommended a further review of contracts of service for Line Corporals and Privates and Corporals in receipt of Technical Pay 1 and 2, recruited to the Defence Forces post 1st January 1994. The Adjudicator recommended that such personnel be allowed to continue to serve beyond 21 years for a period up to the expiry of the next two promotion panels, subject to them meeting the required criteria and not exceeding the age of 50 years during this period.

In 2019, a further agreement was reached with PDFORRA that all Privates and Corporals recruited post 1994, be allowed to continue in service to 31 December 2022, (or until they reach the age of 50), provided these personnel meet certain criteria, including medical grades and fitness tests, during the interim period. This agreement was subsequently extended to include Sergeants recruited to the Permanent Defence Force, post 1st January 1994, who can also continue in service to the same date, subject to their meeting agreed criteria in the interim period.

This agreement with PDFORRA provides for such personnel to continue in service beyond the timeframe suggested in the adjudication to allow for this review to be completed. The rank of line Privates, which had not been specifically recommended for review in the adjudication, is also encompassed with this measure. These measures are in place to allow the review to take place in the extended timeframe.

I am advised by military management that as at 31 May 2021, the number of Privates and Corporals in receipt of Technical Pay Group 2 or less, who enlisted post 1994 and who have served or will serve 21 years or more by end December 2022 is 195.

The Review will encompass consideration of the mandatory retirement age limits for Privates, Corporals and Sergeants, as well as senior NCOs. Proposals and recommendations arising from these deliberations will be discussed with PDFORRA on completion of the Review.

Question No. 28 answered with Question No. 22.

Maritime Jurisdiction

Ceisteanna (29)

John Brady

Ceist:

29. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence the measures that he will take to ensure that foreign naval vessels that conduct anti-submarine warfare drills in Irish waters take appropriate measures to protect marine life; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34621/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

At the outset let me state that under international law other State's naval ships or vessels are within their rights to carry out a training exercise in Ireland's EEZ or to traverse the Irish EEZ. This is not in any way an infringement of our national territory. In this context it is not unusual for naval ships or vessels of other States to carry out training exercises within Ireland's EEZ or to passage through this area. This would normally involve prior notification to Irish Authorities where an exercise was taking place close to our Territorial Waters but this is not a requirement.

While I do not have respsosibility for the protection of marine life, I am advised that the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have responsibility for implementation of the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Directive 2008/56/EC). This Directive and an associated Amendment and Decision (2017) are designed to ensure the achievement and maintenance of good environmental status and the sustainability of human activities within the marine waters of the EU using a set of 11 qualitative descriptors to do so. It should be noted that under Article 2 of the Directive there is the provision that the Directive “shall not apply to activities the sole purpose of which is defence or national security”, as would be the case for training by naval ships and vessels.

I am also advised that all cetaceans are protected under the EU’s Habitats Directive and Ireland is required to report to the EU Commission on their conservation status every six years. Twenty-four species of cetacean have been recorded from Irish waters.

I acknowledge previously raised concerns, which were addressed by my colleague the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, around the impact on cetaceans in Irish waters from underwater noises and acoustic disturbance, including sonar. I undersatnd the hearing system of marine mammals is particularly susceptible to damage and the deep-diving beaked whale species are known to be especially vulnerable. I would direct further concerns on this matter to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage who has responsibility for the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

As Minister O'Brien's Department has noted previously, the use of sonar technology by naval vessels has the potential to disturb, displace and even kill cetaceans. However, Ireland is not a NATO member and the Naval Service does not currently employ sonar technology in its operations.

The Defence Organisation is supportive of the work of the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and my Department and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage have a Service Level Agreement in place for the provision of assistance by the Air Corps to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, subject to availability and operational commitments. The Air Corps support the National Parks and Wildlife Service in areas including surveys of habitats and species, surveillance for protection of habitats, and occasional assistance with works requiring lifting into or from remote areas.

Naval Service

Ceisteanna (30)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

30. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Naval Service ships are unable to take to sea (details supplied); and the steps taken or that will be taken to remedy this situation. [34672/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

The Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency and is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. In this context, I would highlight and acknowledge the security role of the Naval Service, a role which by its nature can go unrecognised or unacknowledged a great number of times. While the main day-to-day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union, on any given patrol or patrol day the Naval Service can and do carry out a number of taskings on behalf of other State agencies such as the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, An Garda Síochána and the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners. The role the Naval Service plays in Ireland’s maritime domain is of central importance.

The Government has acknowledged the recruitment and retention issues that are currently impacting on Naval Service operations. A range of actions have been taken to date to address these issues and further actions are currently under consideration. The sea-going service commitment scheme and an extension of a tax credit, both for sea-going Naval Service personnel, are examples of targeted measures I have introduced which are aimed at retaining experienced personnel. I can assure the Deputy that notwithstanding current challenges being experienced, the Naval Service continues to carry out the roles assigned by Government, including fishery protection and maritime security operations. My focus is on returning the Naval Service to its full capacity.

On the matters raised in the addtional details supplied by the Deputy the following may be of interest.

The Naval Service recently played a key role in tracking and identifying a fishing vessel which was carrying drugs that were estimated to be worth €220 million. The vessel was intercepted off the Canary Islands after the Naval Service had brought the ship to the attention of Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre – Narcotics (MAOC (N)) the EU anti-drugs agency. Ireland plays an important role in supporting EU efforts to disrupt drug trafficking into Europe and the Deputy may wish to note that the Defence Forces, in particular the Naval Service and Air Corps, just last week received the MAOC (N) Medal of Excellence. This award was presented by MAOC (N) to the Defence Forces for their role in assisting in the interception of Trans National Organised Crime vessels transporting drugs to Europe and I offer my sincere congratulations on this achievement.

On fisheries matters, I understand the Naval Service is working in close cooperation with the SFPA in relation to a re-emphasis of a risk based approach to fishery protection to better utilise resources - that is, delivering fewer boardings but boardings of a much higher quality. The success of this approach is evident in the number of detentions made by the Naval Service last year in 2020, a year when boardings and inspections were complicated by Covid-19 restrictions and mitigations.

The patrol of the EFCA ship referenced in the Deputy's article a is a product of greater EU cooperation in the area of fisheries protection rather than as a result of Naval Service activity levels. It should also be noted that an EFCA ship has patrolled the Irish EEZ prior to this year in cooperation with both the SFPA and the Naval Service, the article was incorrect on this. The Naval Service liaised closely with the ship when it was operating in the Irish EEZ. The Deputy is advised that, in general, in relation to cooperation among EU Member States on the Common Fisheries Policy and fisheries protection, Ireland has the highest pre-commitment to EFCA Joint Deployment Days of any EU Member State.

I would also like to take this opportunity to mention that in the context of Brexit, the Fisheries Monitoring Centre, FMC, plays a key role in processing the required fishery control Prior Notifications for fishing vessels from 3rd (non-EU) countries fishing in the Irish EEZ and for Irish fishing vessels fishing in 3rd countries' EEZs. From 1st January this year the UK became a 3rd country in terms of fisheries control which has led to a considerable increase in Port State Control requests received by Ireland. I would like to commend the FMC for playing a key role in facilitating a smooth transition to this new way of doing business.

The multi-faceted nature of the role of the Defence Forces in Irish life is an aspect of our Military that I am particularly proud of and this is a key feature of the Naval Service.

Departmental Reviews

Ceisteanna (31)

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

31. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Defence the status of the organisational capability review of his Department. [34681/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

Action 20 of the Civil Service Renewal Plan, which is overseen by the Civil Service Management Board, provides for a programme of organisational reviews to embed a culture of regular and objective assessments of the capacity and capability of each Department to achieve its objectives, and take the necessary action to close any gaps.

An Organisational Capability Review of my Department is being conducted by the Organisational Capability Review team which is based in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

The review involves engagement with Departmental staff, which is curently underway, and with key stakeholders in the policy and operational domains of the Department. The report arising from the Review, and an action plan to address recommendations made, will be brought to Government and to the Civil Service Management Board, and will then be published.

Question No. 32 answered with Question No. 27.

Question No. 33 answered with Question No. 27.

Cybersecurity Policy

Ceisteanna (34, 39, 47, 50)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

34. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to a recent article in the media (details supplied) which stated there has been a 413% increase in ransomware attacks in Ireland since 2020; his views on the impact that cutbacks to the Defence Forces budget have had on the response to the HSE cyber-attack; if he will carry out an in-depth review of the capabilities and structures of the Communications and Information Services Corps and the Permanent Defence Forces to ensure the retention of skilled personnel within the forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34673/21]

Ruairí Ó Murchú

Ceist:

39. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Defence the details of the cyber-security capacity within the Defence Forces; his plans to increase such capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34601/21]

James Lawless

Ceist:

47. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Defence the role the Defence Forces has in national cybersecurity; if he has proposals to expand this participation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34677/21]

John Brady

Ceist:

50. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence the progress that has been made to date on bringing the capacity of the Defence Forces cyber unit up to full strength; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34620/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 39, 47 and 50 together.

As we have all seen from recent incidents, Cyber security is an issue with very significant implications for governmental administration, for industry, for economic wellbeing and for the security and safety of citizens. It is a standing item on the agenda of the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning which I Chair where it is always a key topic of discussion.

The response to cyber threats is a whole-of-Government challenge, with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications taking the lead role and with inputs in the security domain from An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.

The National Cyber Security Centre, which is part of the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, is the primary authority responsible for cyber security in the State, including incident response, cyber resilience and information provision. While the primary role of the Defence Forces with regard to Cyber Security relates to the defence and security of its own networks and systems, the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces are committed to participating, under the leadership of the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, in the delivery of measures to improve the Cyber Security of the State. This is being done in line with the Programme for Government commitment to implement the National Cyber Security Strategy, recognizing the potential and important role of the Defence Forces.

Department officials and members of the Defence Forces are actively involved in the implementation of the National Cyber Security Strategy which, in conjunction with the White Paper on Defence 2015, will continue to inform our engagement in this critical area. This includes work to develop an updated, detailed risk assessment of the current vulnerability of all Critical National Infrastructure and services to cyber-attacks and the secondment of a member of the Defence Forces to the Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Tallinn, Estonia. My Officials are also part of the steering group developing a Baseline Cyber Security Standard for Government Departments and Agencies, they participate in the UK-Ireland Critical National Infrastructure Cyber Cooperation Working Group and my officials also actively participate on the Inter-Departmental Committee overseeing the overall implementation of the National Cyber Security Strategy.

In addition, the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces have a Memorandum of Understanding and a Service Level Agreement with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications to provide support in the area of national cyber security. The overall aim is to improve the cyber security of the State through various types of assistance and support while also ensuring the operational requirements of the Defence Forces are prioritised, including the ongoing sharing of information and analyses of risks.

Regarding the major cyber-attack on the HSE, the National Cyber Security Centre in Minister Ryan’s Department of Environment, Climate and Communications is the national response authority for cybersecurity incidents. The full resources of the Centre have been committed to supporting the HSE in its response to the cyberattack and the Centre is also liaising with international partners and third party contractors. This work has continued intensively since the incident took place with the focus on bringing the HSE’s systems back online as soon as possible. I am pleased to note that the Defence Forces have also been part of the national effort to support the HSE.

While it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the specific cyber activities and the resourcing of same by the Defence Forces, for both security and operational reasons, I can inform the Deputy that the priority for the Defence Forces Communications and Information Services Corps is the protection of the Defence Forces Communications Network. DF Cyber capability is focused on Defence Networks and information systems, Incident Response and Resolution, Education and Capability Development, increasing Cyber awareness among DF personnel and Strategic Relationship Development. Also of note is that the Defence Forces have established a Computer Incident Response Team/ Information Assurance (CIRT)/IA section.

Finally, I would note that the independent Commission on the Defence Forces is examining Defence Force Capabilities, Structures and Staffing in a number of areas and it is expected that a report will be produced for consideration by the Government before the end of the year.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (35)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

35. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Defence if the re-opening of St. Bricin's Military Hospital or the construction of a new purpose-built military medical facility staffed by members of the Medical Corps will be committed to in order to better prepare readiness in the face of future challenges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34675/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

The Deputy may wish to note that the Land Development Agency has confirmed to my Department that they are interested in acquiring the St. Bricins land holding for the purpose of developing housing provision. The necessary legal preparatory work to give effect to this transfer is well advanced.

In this regard, I can confirm that the Defence Forces Built Infrastructure Programme includes provision for the relocation and development of a new purpose built medical facility. The relocation when completed will not diminish, in any way, the provision of the existing comprehensive range of medical care currently provided to all serving personnel of the Permanent Defence Forces.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (36, 306)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

36. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the updating of training continues throughout all branches of the Defence Forces including the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34604/21]

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

306. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the training of the Defence Forces remains on par with international standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34964/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 306 together.

The primary function of training in the Defence Forces is to develop and maintain the capabilities necessary to enable them to fulfil the roles laid down by Government. The Defence Forces conduct training under four broad categories, namely; Leadership, Skills, Career, and Collective. Leadership Training is the medium through which the Defence Forces ensure that personnel are prepared for exercising command authority across the full range of military functions both at home and overseas in international operations. Skills Training ensures that Defence Forces personnel have the requisite individual, specialist, and crew skills. Career Training, and education, provides the organisation with the necessary pool of leaders and commanders at all levels. Collective Training allows military personnel to use their individual, crew, specialist and career training together, to develop integrated and coherent combat forces.

The scheduling of training in the Defence Forces, including the Reserve, is underpinned by an analysis of training required to meet operational output and capability development requirements.

The Defence Forces seek to constantly benchmark training across all three arms of the organisation against best military and academic practice. Military best practice is ensured by implementing a policy of standardisation that is in line with EU and NATO/Partnership for Peace partners. Academic best practice is ensured by benchmarking courses through accreditation under the National Framework of Qualifications which is validated by Quality and Qualifications Ireland. The Defence Forces deliver military programmes and modules meeting national and international standards and engage with external educational institutions in order to facilitate organisational learning. This engagement with national and international educational institutions, military and civilian, aims to ensure that the Defence Forces retain currency with regards to best international practice and employ all relevant modern training methods.

I remain committed to ensuring that all personnel of the Defence Forces continue to be trained to appropriate standards.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (37, 297)

John Brady

Ceist:

37. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence the mechanisms the Defence Forces have in place to ensure that UNSCR 1325 is at the centre of all defence activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34623/21]

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

297. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence his views on the capacity of the Defence Forces to deal with the increased use of sexual and gender based violence in conflict zones. [34701/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 297 together.

Ireland implements UNSCR 1325 through our National Action Plan (NAP) on Women, Peace and Security. Irelands 3rd NAP on Women Peace and Security was published in June 2019 and covers a five-year period up to 2024. Its implementation is overseen by an Oversight Group, which includes representatives from both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces.

Ireland is committed, through its third NAP on WPS, to women’s protection in fragile and conflict-affected zones and the prevention and combatting of all human rights violations against women, including Sexual Exploitation and Abuse and Gender-Based Violence.

In line with the NAP for the implementation of UNSCR 1325, the Defence Forces launched their own “Defence Forces Third Action Plan for the Implementation of UNSCR 1325 and Related Resolutions” in December 2020. The third iteration of the Defence Forces action plan has three key priorities spanning the life of the plan, namely,

a. reinforcing initiatives already in place whilst aiming to capture their effectiveness;

b. the consideration of the effects of harmful masculinities and discriminatory gender norms;

c. the development of Defence Forces processes addressing Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) and Gender Based Violence (GBV).

The Defence Forces WPS Action Plan commits to the comprehensive training of peacekeepers on the gendered impacts of conflict, increasing the participation of women in peacekeeping missions, ensuring trained Gender Advisors are deployed to Peacekeeping missions and strengthening the gender responsiveness of the UN. The Department of Defence and the Defence Forces report on the implementation of these commitments to the Oversight Group for Ireland’s national level plan.

The Defence Forces are a member of the Irish Consortium on Gender Based Violence (ICGBV). The Consortium works in over 50 countries worldwide to prevent, mitigate and respond to gender based violence.

The Defence Forces have gender advisers in each of the military headquarters at home and gender focal points are appointed to overseas missions. The gender advisor in Defence Forces headquarters has overall responsibility for the co-ordination of the implementation of UNSCR 1325 and related resolutions within Defence Forces policies, programmes and operations both on island and overseas.

The promotion of a strong gender perspective is a key element in all our peacekeeping operations and is an integral element to improving the effectiveness of UN peacekeeping. It is widely acknowledged that the presence of women contributes greatly in resolving conflict with local populations on the ground. It broadens the skills set available within a peacekeeping mission and provides role models for women, both at home and abroad.

The Defence Forces is an inclusive, equal opportunity organisation that encourages participation of women at all levels, throughout the Defence Forces.

EU Meetings

Ceisteanna (38)

Neale Richmond

Ceist:

38. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on his recent meeting of EU Defence Ministers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34624/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

I attended the recent Informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers which took place between the 27th and 28th of May in Lisbon. This meeting consisted of three main sessions; a working dinner on reinvigorating EU - NATO cooperation, a working session on the Strategic Compass (an initiative within the framework of the EU Global Strategy to examine key current and future threats in the context of the EU as Global Security Provider) and a working session on the EU - Africa Partnership in Peace and Security. Defence Ministers also received a short Current Affairs briefing which touched on topics such as Mozambique and the Israel - Palestine situation. The working dinner was attended by NATO Secretary Genearal Jens Stoltenberg, while the EU - Africa session was attended by the Undersecretary General of the UN, Mr Jean Pierre Lacroix and a number of African regional development organisations.

The purpose of the EU - NATO session was to address security challenges that both organisations are facing, to discuss ongoing work in the framework of the EU’s Strategic Compass and NATO’s strategic reflection process (NATO2030) and to reflect on the upcoming fifth anniversary since the Warsaw Joint Declaration.

At the Strategic Compass session, Ministers discussed the Capabilities Basket of the Compass. The conversation focused on what capabilities are needed, how they may be developed and how we can embrace technological innovation to deliver highquality modern capabilities. HRVP Borrell highlighted the potential role of EU initiatives such as (CARD, PESCO, CDP, EDF) in delivering these capabilities.

With 10 CSDP Missions currently active in Africa across civilian and military spheres, the EU has a significant commitment on the continent. EU Ministers were joined by Representatives from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) as well as the UN Under-Secretary General Jean-Pierre Lacroix to discuss challenges to African peace and security. HRVP Borrell emphasised the importance of finding ‘African solutions to African problems’ through cooperation between organisations.

Ireland supports the strengthening of cooperation with our African partners, in order to further progress a mutually beneficial, mature and balanced security partnership with Africa. Ireland is also interested in finding ways to enhance AU-UN and EU-UN cooperation during our UN Security Council term.

In the margins of the Informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers I also met with the Under Secretary General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr Jean-Pierre Lacroix at his request. Topics discussed included UNIFIL, Security Council business, Action for Peacekeeping plus (A4P+), Women, Peace and Security, the UN peacekeeping ministerial meeting on 07-08 December hosted by the Republic of Korea, and opportunities for UN-EU partnership.

Question No. 39 answered with Question No. 34.

Historical Conflicts

Ceisteanna (40)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

40. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans for a national commemoration to mark the 60th anniversary of the siege of Jadotville in Irish military history. [34697/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Defence

The siege of Jadotville was a prominent event that occurred during Ireland's peacekeeping mission in the Congo in September 1961. "A" Company, 35th Infantry Battalion took responsibility for the UN post at Jadotville on 3rd September 1961. On the 9th September, a large force of Katangese Gendarmerie surrounded them and early on the morning of the 13th September "A" Company came under attack. From the 13th to the 17th September they endured almost continuous attack. They were taken into captivity on the 17th September and remained in captivity until finally released on the 25th October 1961.

A number of measures have taken place to honour and to commemorate the events at Jadotville and the very significant contribution of “A” Company and of the 35th Battalion, as a whole, to the UN Peace Support Mission in the Congo.

Recognition of their contribution between the years 2004 and 2015 include:

A. A presentation of scrolls to "A" Company in 2006.

B. Portraits of Lt Col McNamee (35th Battalion Commander) and Comdt Quinlan (Company Commander “A” Company) were commissioned in 2006.

C. In July of 2010 the 50th anniversary of the first deployment to the Congo was commemorated in a highly publicised and well attended event in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel.

D. A nominal roll of “A” Company, printed in copper, was affixed to the monument in Custume Barracks and was unveiled as part of the 50th Anniversary of the Jadotville affair in September 2011.

E. On the occasion of the 55th anniversary of the Siege of Jadotville, a Unit Citation to honour the collective actions and bravery of the men of “A” Company was issued. This was the first time a Unit Citation was awarded within the Defence Forces.

In 2017, a specially commissioned medal “An Bonn Jadotville” was awarded to all the men of “A” Company, 35th Infantry Battalion and the next of kin of deceased members, to give full and due recognition in honour of their courageous actions at the Siege of Jadotville in September, 1961. This medal presentation ceremony took place in Custume Barracks, Athlone on 2nd December 2017. Custume Barracks was the location for this event as it is considered the spiritual home of “A” Company and it is from here that “A” Company assembled in advance of their fateful deployment to the Congo. The “An Bonn Jadotville” or “The Jadotville Medal” has the word “Jadotville” depicted on the clasp of the medal and the medal ribbon represents a combination of an Irish tricolour and the United Nations Operation in Congo (ONUC) mission medal.

Notwithstanding the range of actions that have been undertaken to date, an Independent Review Group was established in December 2020 and in line with the Terms of Reference, the Independent Review Group will examine, report and make recommendations in relation to the ‘Battle of Jadotville’ from 13 to 17 September 1961 and will report its findings to the Chief of Staff, as the convening authority.

The Independent Review Group have been actively engaged in the consultation and research process and was originally due to conclude by 31st March 2021. However, given the sheer volume of meetings and the comprehensive nature of the research process, an interim report was submitted and an extension to the timeframe for reporting to the Chief of Staff was requested. I agreed to an extenstion and am expecting the final report along with recommendations from the Chief of Staff shortly.

At this juncture there are currently no plans for a national ceremony to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Siege of Jadotville in September. However, the Defence Organisation supports an annual Veterans Day and deceased members are honoured annually at the National Day of Commemoration and at individual ceremonies held in Barracks throughout the country.