Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 May 2022
35. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence if members of the Defence Forces at the rank of sergeant who are affected by the situation regarding the post-94 contracts will be informed by his Department as to whether they will be allowed to remain in service as per his announcement in December 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23755/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraA civil/military review of mandatory retirement ages and service limits of all ranks in the Permanent Defence Force has been conducted. The recommendations arising from the review require consideration from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, in relation to implications on costs and pensions.
In December 2021, I secured agreement with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, which allows for an extension in service limits for Privates and Corporals, who were recruited to the Permanent Defence Force since 1 January 1994, to remain in service up to 50 years of age, subject to them meeting certain criteria including medical and fitness standards.
In addition, I also secured arrangements that will facilitate the extension of service limits of Sergeants recruited to the Permanent Defence Force since 1994. Discussions are ongoing between officials in the Department of Defence and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in respect of the nature of the arrangement.
