Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2022
91. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the number of transfers to alternative barracks that have been refused due to concerns in relation to staffing levels and the inability to replace experienced personnel. [34160/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Military Authorities have advised that data on the number of transfers to alternative barracks that have been refused is not retained.
I have been further advised by the Military Authorities that in general, transfer requests are considered on a case by case basis.
An individual member submits an application for transfer from one service corps to another or a posting (within service corps) through the chain of command, for the consideration of the relevant Brigade/Formation Commanders. An important factor in considering the approval of a transfer request is the existence of a vacancy of appropriate rank and skill set. Where Formation Commanders disagree, the final determination is made by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support).
In this regard, the operational needs of the organisation are balanced with the needs of the individual. I am advised that there is a requirement for Unit Commanders to create conditions where members are afforded the opportunity to meet their contractual obligations for extension of service.
A situation may arise where the movement of an individual to another unit is detrimental to their ability to meet the contractual requirements for extension in service as laid out in Defence Forces Regulations.
In addition, I would advise the Deputy that under the terms of the Promotion Scheme for Non-Commissioned Officers of Sergeant rank and higher, as agreed with the Representative Association, PDFORRA, applications for transfer are ordinarily not administered during the lifetime of the Order of Merit list, of any particular promotion competition.
This allows for vacancies to be filled through promotion as opposed to transfer or posting.
In exceptional circumstances, the filling of vacancies by way of posting/ transfer during a live promotion competition may be sanctioned by the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support).
Where the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support) sanctions a posting or transfer during this period, every effort is made to ensure that no individual on a live Order of Merit list. will be adversely affected.
