Written Answers Nos. 21-40
21. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if Collins Barracks, Cork will be the location of the headquarters of the military formation that will control military operations in the southern region of the country, in the new Defence Forces structure that emerges as a result of the recommendations set out in the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4948/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, the report of the Commission was published on 9th February 2022. The Commission undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
In July last year Government approved a High-Level Action Plan in response to the Commission report. As part of this, approval was given for a move, over a six-year period, to a level of Defence Forces’ capability equivalent to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission, which will entail funding increases to reach a defence budget of c. €1.5 billion (at January 2022 prices) by 2028 through the annual Estimates process.
Implementation structures have been put in place encompassing an Implementation Oversight Group, a High-Level Steering Board and an Implementation Management Office (IMO) to support the implementation of the overall transformation programme required to implement recommendations from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
The High Level Action Plan also sets out all the recommendations contained within the report and designates a response of Accept, Accept in Principle, Further Evaluation or Revert.
There are a number of recommendations contained in the report which may impact on the structure of the Defence Forces including, that the structure of the Army be reviewed, and in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered.
The recommendation, that the structure of the Army be reviewed, was identified as an Early Action in the High Level Action Plan. Military authorities are progressing the establishment of an office of Army Force design which will undertake the work required to give effect to this recommendation. The Implementation Management Office is working on the production of a detailed implementation plan for the remaining recommendations which will include those which may assist with informing any decision about Army headquarters.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it would not be appropriate for me to engage in speculative discussion on this matter prior to completion of the ongoing process.
23. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of times that planned Naval Service operations did not go ahead in each of the past five years due to low staffing numbers. [5137/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency and is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. The primary day-to-day tasking 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. These patrols are carried out on a regular and frequent basis and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary.
The table below provides details on Naval Service patrols that were cancelled due to personnel reasons from 2018 up until the end 2022.
|
Year |
Cancelled Patrol Days - Personnel reasons |
|
2018 |
53 |
|
2019 |
52 |
|
2020 |
28 |
|
2021 |
196 |
|
2022 |
49 |
Notwithstanding some challenges being experienced, the Naval Service continues to carry out the roles assigned by Government, including fishery protection and maritime surveillance operations.
The Government have acknowledged the recruitment and retention difficulties in the Naval Service, which present ongoing operational challenges. A number of measures have been implemented to address these difficulties, including:
- The seagoing service commitment scheme, introduced in January 2021.
- Introduction of a sea going naval personnel tax credit in 2020, which has been extended to 2023.
- Increase in the upper recruitment age limit for those recruited as Direct Entry Technicians in 2022.
- Revision of terms and conditions for certain specialists .
- Flexibility in respect of the starting pay for certain Naval Service specialists.
Furthermore, three Naval Service Regeneration priority action Working Groups have been established to make recommendations on:
- A revised Patrol Duty allowance model,
- Consideration of future overseas missions/tasks/visits for the Naval Service and
- A concentrated recruitment campaign for general service naval recruits and specialist personnel.
In relation to retention, there has been significant progress on pay arising from the Public Service Pay Commission recommendations along with increases from recent pay agreements and the early implementation of some of the recommendations of Commission on the Defence Forces.
In addition to the above measures, a number of proposals have been made more recently which include a mix of pay-related and operational initiatives further aimed at addressing the issue of recruitment and retention. Moreover, the Defence Forces are currently finalising renewed recruitment and retention strategies.
I can assure the Deputy that the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence are engaged in significant efforts across a wide range of initiatives which when taken holistically aim to have the desired effect of addressing the challenges facing the Naval Service.
24. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his assessment of the UNIFIL mission at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4945/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra68. Deputy John Brady asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there are plans to review the security and safety of Irish troops serving in Lebanon following the death of a soldier (details supplied), particularly with growing geo-political tensions in the region, and the potential impact of events outside their area of operations on the Irish Defence Force Forces in southern Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5158/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 68 together.
The UNIFIL mission in Lebanon continues to represent Ireland's largest overseas deployment. As of 1 January 2023, Ireland is contributing 349 personnel to this mission. Ireland has contributed troops to UNIFIL since 1978.
UNIFIL and the Lebanese Armed Forces have a key role to play in Lebanese stability. As a member of the United Nations Security Council, Ireland strongly supported the extension to UNIFIL’s temporary support to the Lebanese Armed Forces in the mission’s mandate renewal last August. We are conscious that peacekeepers in South Lebanon are most effective when they work in partnership with the Lebanese Armed Forces and we believe that UNIFIL continues to be a force for stability.
The Irish Government remains strongly committed to the maintenance of peace and security in Lebanon through our continued participation in UNIFIL.
On 17 May 2022 the Government approved the continued participation of the Defence Forces in UNIFIL for a further 12-month period up until 30 May 2023. Irish troops are currently serving as part of a joint Irish-Polish Battalion in UNIFIL, with smaller numbers of additional personnel provided by both Hungary and Malta.
The safety and wellbeing of all Irish Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions is of paramount concern when considering new or continued participation in any mission, including UNIFIL.
It is the policy and practice to ensure that Defence Forces personnel serving overseas are appropriately trained and equipped with the most modern and effective equipment to carry out their mission, as well as providing the required level of force protection specific to the mission.
Ongoing threat assessments are carried out in the mission area and personal equipment and force assets are continually reviewed, to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their role.
Unfortunately, and as we saw in Lebanon in December, no mission is without danger. Any lessons learned from this tragic incident that resulted in the death of Private Seán Rooney, and that can inform the safety of future missions, must be taken on board.
In the course of my recent visit to UNIFIL, I met with the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations and we both agreed that the safety and security of peacekeepers serving on UN missions is a priority for Ireland and the UN.
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.
25. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he has met or is intending to meet with a group (details supplied) since assuming office as Minister. [5153/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am fully committed to ensuring that every member of the Defence Forces has the right to undertake their duties in a safe environment underpinned by dignity and equality and by a culture of zero-tolerance for any kind of bullying, discrimination, harassment or sexual abuse. That is an absolute priority.
The Judge-led Independent Review Group, established last January by Government, is examining the systems, policies and procedures for dealing with issues relating to bullying, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in the Defence Forces as well as the prevailing workplace culture.
I wish to commend the courage of serving members, the Women of Honour group and the Men and Women of Honour group, as well as serving members of the Defence Forces, who have shared their experiences of unacceptable behaviour in the Defence Forces. It was clear that there was a very critical and immediate need to address the prevailing work culture, including issues relating to the current systems, policies and procedures for dealing with unacceptable behaviour in the Defence Forces.
The primary objective of all concerned, at the outset, was to acknowledge issues in the current workplace and to establish a course of action that would address that. The Independent Review Group has undertaken this work in the past 12 months. Many stakeholders, including serving members, have lent their support to the Independent Review Group.
The Deputy will be aware that I met with the Group in January of last year in my capacity as Taoiseach. I emphasised at that meeting that that the concerns and views of Women of Honour are not being ignored and the Terms of Reference gave the Independent Review Group sufficient lattitude to assess if a further body was work is required with regard to historical matters.
I understand that the Report will be with me later this week and I do not intend, at this time, to pre-empt any recommendations which might come from that. I will of course, be considering the Report in full, in consultation with the Attorney General before bringing the Report to Government and its publication.
I do intend to seek meetings with all stakeholders, including the Women of Honour.
26. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will review the State’s overall handing of the Jadotville case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5199/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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.
The issue of the award of medals to the men of “A” Company, 35th Infantry Battalion was addressed in 1962 and 1965. A properly constituted Medals Board considered the various cases presented. The board did not award any medals whose citations mention Jadotville. The Chief of Staff of the day considered the decision of the Board and was satisfied with the findings. Subsequently at that time, the question was raised again in a letter to a newly appointed Chief of Staff. He forwarded the letter to the original Medals Board and asked that they reconvene and review their decision. The Board indicated that the issues raised had received due consideration and that they were not prepared to alter their findings.
A review was conducted in 2004 by military officers for the purpose of a broader examination of the Jadotville case. This Board recommended that the events of Jadotville and the contribution of the 35th Battalion be given recognition. In this context, 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:
1. A presentation of scrolls to "A" Company in 2006.
2. Portraits of Lt Col McNamee (35th Battalion Commander) and Comdt Quinlan (Company Commander “A” Company) were commissioned in 2006.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 June 2017, at the request of the Minister with responsibility for Defence, a further review of archival records relating to the Siege of Jadotville was undertaken by the Military Authorities but this did not uncover any additional information not already known. However, the findings of this review clarified that there is no certainty available in archive records on the totality of “A” Company personnel recommended for awards. Furthermore, it revealed no evidence of the outcome of the award consideration process. In considering the proposed way forward, the Military Authorities outlined that political direction would be required to take forward action in this area.
Given the increased knowledge and understanding of the unique and exceptional circumstances surrounding the Siege of Jadotville and taking account of the request from Military Authorities for political direction, the then Taoiseach and the then Minister with responsibility for Defence decided that the most appropriate decision would be to collectively honour the actions of “A” Company at Jadotville.
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.
Notwithstanding the actions that have been taken to date to recognise and honour the valiant actions and bravery of all of the men stationed at Jadotville sixty years ago, an Independent Review Group (IRG) was established in 2021 to examine and report on matters relating to recommendations for military medals relating to events at Jadotville.
The Independent Review Group was established by the Chief of Staff and consisted of the following members:
Brigadier-General Paul Pakenham (Retired) (Group Chairperson).
Dr Michael Kennedy, Royal Irish Academy.
Commandant Billy Campbell (Retired).
RSM Michael Dillon (Retired).
Ms Linda Hickey, Military Archives.
The Terms of Reference for the review were as follows:-
- The Review Group will consider ONUC’s operational environment in Katanga, and in particular in Elizabethville and Jadotville
- The Review Group will consider the historical evidence and processes in relation to all recommendations for military medals received with respect to the events at Jadotville or encompassing Jadotville.
- The Review Group will engage with national and international stakeholders (including Jadotville veterans) as appropriate, with a view to uncovering any additional or new evidence in this case.
- The Review Group may consider the actions of individuals not already the subject of a recommendation for a medal in respect of Jadotville.
- The Review Group will report its findings to the Chief of Staff. The Review Group may make recommendations in relation to possible awards in respect of Jadotville.
The report, which was published in full in July 2021, is substantial and makes a number of recommendations in respect of the issue of award of medals, honouring the role of families and the support they provided to veterans and in respect of veterans affairs.
The deeply unsettling aftermath of Jadotville is detailed in the report as is the lack of personal welfare supports afforded to the men following events at Jadotville, their period in captivity and upon their return home. The former Minister for Defence, Mr Simon Coveney, has apologised to veterans and to their families on behalf of the State and the Government to the men of ‘A’ Company, 35th Infantry Battalion and to their families for the lack of necessary supports or deserved recognition of their valiant service on their return from the Congo and for the many issues that arose as a result, some of which had tragic consequences. He has also acknowledged that the lack of supports in place at that time is extremely regrettable. There have been great steps in the intervening years to support Defence Forces personnel, their families and veterans through the work of the Defence Forces personnel support services.
In recognition of the role of parents, wives and families residing in Athlone, Galway, Mullingar and elsewhere during the Battle of Jadotville and the subsequent period in captivity, the Independent Review Group strongly recommended that a plaque in their honour be affixed to the memorial honouring personnel of ‘A’ Company, 35 Infantry Battalion in Custume Barracks Athlone.
After further consideration by the Department and the Defence Forces, and in response to the views received from the veterans’ associations, a more substantial monument honouring the families was commissioned, to be placed at the site of the existing memorial honouring the personnel of ‘A’ Company, 35 Infantry Battalion in Custume Barracks Athlone. This monument was unveiled by the then Minister for Defence Simon Coveney at a brief ceremony on 9th December 2022 at Custume Barracks, Athlone.
The implementation of any outstanding Independent Review Group recommendations is ongoing.
I am satisfied the matter has been addressed comprehensively and there are no plans to commence a process of further engagement.
28. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the anticipated future role of the Defence Forces, Army, Naval Service, and Air Corps in future national and or European defence measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5172/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe White Paper published in 2015 set out the roles of the Defence Forces, these roles were not changed in the White Paper Update 2019.
The White Paper on Defence published in 2015 set out the Government intention to put in place a new fixed cycle of defence reviews. Such reviews are common practice internationally and give reassurance that policy remains up to date and relevant to changing future circumstances.
The first of these reviews, the White Paper Update was published in 2019. The second of these reviews, the Strategic Defence Review stage, was due to commence in 2021. With the establishment of the independent Commission on the Defence Forces by Government in December 2020, a decision was taken to pause commencing the Strategic Defence Review until the Commission on the Defence Forces had completed their report and Government had been given time to consider the report.
Following detailed consideration of the Commission Report the Minister for Defence brought to Government a High Level Action Plan and a Memo for Government which were approved on July 12th last year. Part of the High Level Action Plan was the progression of a number of early actions one of these being the commencement of the Strategic Defence Review.
The essential ingredients of the defence reviews process are to ensure an updated security assessment and a fresh consideration of the implications of this assessment for overall policy requirements, associated tasks, capability development and resourcing. As well as encompassing the Government agreed recommendations from the Commission on the Defence Forces, the future role of the Defence Forces both nationally and internationally will also be considered within the Strategic Defence Review.
Arising from the implementation of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, a significant overhaul of the Defence Acts will be required. This will provide an opportunity to modernise the legislation in a range of areas, including, if considered appropriate, in relation to the anticipated future roles of the Defence Forces.
The first stage of the Strategic Defence Review will be security environment analysis to be conducted by an interdepartmental working group which is due to commence shortly.
29. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will provide an update on the work to implement the Defence Forces Pay Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4092/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Defence Forces are paid increases in pay and allowances in line with Public Service pay agreements.
The most recent agreement, the extension to the ‘Building Momentum’ pay agreement, ratified by the Defence sector Representative Associations last autumn, provided for increases in pay and allowances to all public servants, including members of the Defence Forces. The agreement provided for a 6.5 % increase over 2022 and 2023, including:
- 3%, backdated to 2nd Feb 2022
- 2 % on 1st March 2023
- 1.5% or €750, whichever is the greater, on 1st October 2023.
Pensionable allowances in the nature of pay will also benefit.
The 3% increase back-dated to February 2022 was paid to all serving members of the Defence Forces members by 30 November 2022 last. Preparations are underway to pay the next tranche of 2%, due on 1st March 2023. In addition, the 1% increase backdated to 1 October 2022 [agreed under the original Building Momentum agreement] was also paid by 30 November 2022.
Given the complexity around Defence Forces pensions, a decision was made to prioritise on the 3% increase with arrears back-dated to February 2022, to ensure all Defence Force pensioners received some additional payment before Christmas last year; this was paid by 19 December 2022. Preparations are underway to pay the 1% pension increase backdated to 1 October 2022 with the next tranche of 2%, due in March 2023.
30. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his priorities for 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5208/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra48. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will outline his priorities for his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5166/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 48 together.
The Programme for Government contains an ambitious range of commitments concerning the Defence sector that my Department will continue to implement over the lifetime of the Programme.
One of the key commitments was to establish a Commission on the Defence Forces and their report was published on the 9th February 2022.
On the 12th July 2022, Government approval was given for a move to 'Level of Ambition 2' (LOA2), as set out in the Commission report. This will result in the Defence budget rising from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion, in 2022 prices, by 2028, the largest increase in Defence funding in the history of the State. The move to LOA2 will require an additional 2,000 personnel (civil and military) over and above the current establishment of 9,500. A High-Level Action Plan (HLAP) was also approved by Government.
A civil/military Implementation Management Office (IMO) has been established to support the implementation of the overall transformation programme required to implement recommendations from the report and work on a detailed implementation plan is currently at an advanced stage.
One of the Early Actions identified in the High-Level Action Plan was the commencement of a Strategic Defence Review as part of the regular defence review process set out in the White Paper. The first stage of this review will be a security environment analysis to be conducted by an interdepartmental working group which is due to commence shortly.
Along with the actions arising from the Commission on the Defence Forces the following items are some of the more immediate priorities for my Department:
Independent review group
The Judge-led Independent Review Group, established on 25 of January last year, following approval by Government, has been examining the systems, policies and procedures for dealing with issues relating to bullying, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in the Defence Forces, as well as the prevailing workplace culture. In accordance with the Terms of Reference, the Group will provide a Final Report with their findings to me within a year. I understand the Group are nearing the conclusion on the report and it will be submitted to me very shortly which I will consider in full, in consultation with the Attorney General. The Final Report will be brought to Government, before being published.
International
Continuing the work done in 2022, one of the key priorities of my Department in 2023 is the successful reflection of Ireland’s position in relation to various EU defence and security initiatives, including on the implementation of the Strategic Compass, the operationalisation of the European Peace Facility and EU actions in support of Ukraine.
Following the tragic death of Private Sean Rooney on 14th December 2022 in the course of an attack on a UNIFIL mission convoy, the Irish Government is determined that all of the facts and circumstances of the incident in which Private Rooney was killed, are fully established. This matter will be a priority for my Department in 2023. The incident is the subject of a number of parallel investigations and no stone will be left unturned to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
Recruitment and retention
Recruitment and retention of personnel is a key priority for me. In addition to the implementation of the recommendations of the Commission on the Defence Forces, there are a number of initiatives currently underway to counter the on-going recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces and play a role in restoring and retaining capacity.
Other priorities that will be progressed during 2023 include the Organisational Capability Review, regeneration of the RDF, strategic defence review, working time directive, infrastructure and equipment development, Civil Defence and strategic emergency management. Whilst this list does not cover all the work to be carried out in 2023 it captures some of my key priority areas.
31. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there will be a new army headquarters in Athlone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4785/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government. The report of the Commission was published on 9th February 2022. The Commission undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
In July last year Government approved a High-Level Action Plan in response to the Commission report. As part of this, approval was given for a move, over a six-year period, to a level of Defence Forces’ capability equivalent to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission, which will entail funding increases to reach a defence budget of c. €1.5 billion (at January 2022 prices) by 2028 through the annual Estimates process.
Implementation structures have been put in place encompassing an Implementation Oversight Group, a High-Level Steering Board and an Implementation Management Office (IMO) to support the implementation of the overall transformation programme required to implement recommendations from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
The High Level Action Plan also sets out all the recommendations contained within the report and designates a response of Accept, Accept in Principle, Further Evaluation or Revert.
There are a number of recommendations contained in the report which may impact on the structure of the Defence Forces including that the structure of the Army be reviewed, and in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered.
The recommendation, that the structure of the Army be reviewed, was identified as an Early Action in the High Level Action Plan. Military authorities are progressing the establishment of an office of Army Force design which will undertake the work required to give effect to this recommendation. The Implementation Management Office is working on the production of a detailed implementation plan for the remaining recommendations which will include those which may assist with informing any decision about an Army headquarters.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it would not be appropriate for me to engage in speculative discussion on this matter prior to completion of the ongoing process.
32. Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of enlisted members, by rank, who left the Naval Service in 2021 and 2022, respectively, in tabular form; the reasons for leaving; the policies in place to encourage the retention of personnel in the Naval Service; the effectiveness of these policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4780/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra37. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his Department’s position on the challenges of retaining qualified maritime engineers and service personnel in the Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5103/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra38. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the measures he will take to boost retention rates in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4786/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra53. Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of enlisted members, by rank, who left the Air Corps in 2021 and 2022, respectively, in tabular form; the reasons for leaving; the policies in place to encourage the retention of personnel in the Air Corps; the effectiveness of these policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4781/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 32, 37, 38 and 53 together.
The attached tables contain the requested details of enlisted personnel who discharged from the Air Corp and the Naval Services, in 2021 and 2022.
The Government has previously acknowledged the current staffing difficulties in the Naval Service, and the Defence Forces in general. Challenges have existed in recruiting and retaining certain specialists which can prove difficult to retain as there are competing demands for such specialists in other sectors. In response to the specific challenges in the Naval Service, a comprehensive Naval Service Regeneration Plan is being progressed and monitored by a high-level civil/military team. The aim of this plan is to address issues, including Human Resource matters, facing the Naval Service. A number of the staffing measures in the plan have already been implemented.
A number of other retention initiatives are also currently underway. These include service commitment schemes in the Air Corps and Naval Service, and the sea-going naval personnel tax credit. Agreement has also been secured to allow for an extension in service limits for Privates and Corporals and on an interim arrangement, for sergeants.
Pay has improved as a result of increases arising from the Public Service Pay Commission report, from recent pay agreements, and the early implementation of some of the recommendations of Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF). The implementation of two of these recommendations, namely personnel of Private 3 Star/Able Seaman rank being paid the full rate of Military Service Allowance (MSA) applicable to the rank; and the removal of the requirement for that cohort to ‘mark time’ for the first three years at that rank, have had a substantial impact on starting pay rates in the Defence Forces, and compare very well to starting pay rates across the public service.
Arising from the Commission on the Defence Force report, Government has approved a move, over a six-year period, to realise a Defence Forces strength of 11,500 by 2028, incorporating an appropriate civilian component. The Defence Forces are developing strategies to achieve this and to address the current shortfall in numbers.
Naval Service Enlisted Discharges 2021, by Rank and Discharge Reason.
|
DISCHARGE REASON |
WO |
SCPO |
CPO |
SPO |
PO |
LS |
A/S |
O/S |
REC |
APPR |
CADET |
TOTAL |
|
At his own request after 12 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
|
At his/her own request |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
At his/her own request on compassionate grounds |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Below defence forces medical standards |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
|
Discharge by purchase |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
24 |
0 |
17 |
0 |
0 |
46 |
|
Expiry of PDF service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
On pension after 21 years’ service |
0 |
1 |
7 |
0 |
16 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
27 |
|
On termination of engagement |
0 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
3 |
4 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
13 |
|
Total Discharges |
0 |
2 |
9 |
0 |
23 |
11 |
32 |
0 |
18 |
0 |
1 |
96 |
Naval Service Enlisted Discharges 2022, by Rank and Discharge Reason
|
REASON |
WO |
SCPO |
CPO |
SPO |
PO |
LS |
A/S |
O/S |
REC |
APPR |
CADET |
TOTAL |
|
At his own request after 12 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
8 |
|
At his/her own request |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
|
Below defence forces medical standards |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
Discharge by purchase |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
7 |
24 |
0 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
38 |
|
Expiry of PDF service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
On pension after 21 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
8 |
1 |
12 |
6 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
28 |
|
On termination of engagement |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
12 |
|
Total Discharges |
0 |
0 |
10 |
3 |
22 |
21 |
30 |
0 |
6 |
0 |
1 |
93 |
Air Corp Enlisted Discharges 2021, by Rank and Discharge Reason
|
REASON |
SGT MAJ |
BQMS |
CS |
CQMS |
SGT |
CPL |
PTE 3* |
PTE 2* |
REC |
APPR |
CADET |
TOTAL |
|
At his own request after 12 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
|
At his/her own request |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Below defence forces medical standards |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
|
Discharge by purchase |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
10 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
12 |
|
Expiry of PDF service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
On pension after 21 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
15 |
|
On termination of engagement |
0 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
6 |
|
Total Discharges |
0 |
0 |
6 |
1 |
7 |
7 |
20 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
45 |
Air Corp Enlisted Discharges 2022, by Rank and Discharge Reason
|
REASON |
SGT MAJ |
BQMS |
CS |
CQMS |
SGT |
CPL |
PTE 3* |
PTE 2* |
REC |
APPR |
CADET |
TOTAL |
|
At his own request after 12 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
At his/her own request |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
|
Below defence forces medical standards |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
Discharge by purchase |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
13 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
18 |
|
Expiry of PDF service |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
On pension after 21 years’ service |
0 |
0 |
3 |
2 |
9 |
9 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
26 |
|
On termination of engagement |
1 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
9 |
|
Total Discharges |
1 |
0 |
7 |
2 |
12 |
14 |
22 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
62 |
33. Deputy John Brady asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the plans that are in place or under discussion for the role of the Defence Forces in Mali, particularly given the volatile and mutable nature of the security situation in the wider Sahel region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5159/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIrish Defence Forces' personnel are currently deployed in the European Union Training Mission Mali (EUTM Mali).
Ireland has participated in EUTM Mali since its launch in 2013. Government has approved the mandate for the deployment of up to twenty (20) members of the Permanent Defence Force for service with EUTM Mali up to 23 March 2023.
Following the decision of EU Member States in April 2022 to temporarily suspend the provision of operational training to formed units of the Malian armed forces and National Guard, the number of Defence Force personnel serving with the mission was reduced during the year in line with reduced training requirements in the mission from twenty to fourteen.
The EUTM Mali mission is an integral part of the EU’s comprehensive approach to the situation in Mali and Africa’s Sahel region. EUTM Mali complements other EU projects and activities carried out in the context of the EU Strategy for Security and Development in the Sahel.
Ireland remains committed to EUTM Mali, notwithstanding the continuing deterioration in the political and security situation. However, in line with the overall reduction in the size of the mission, we have reduced our presence and that is likely to reduce further later in the spring. The sustainability of EUTM Mali itself may come into question depending on assessment of the long-term feasibility of fulfilling the mission's strategic objectives.
Irelands participation in the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission (MINUSMA) concluded in September 2022. From September 2019 to September 2022 Defence Forces personnel served as part of a joint deployment with the German Armed Forces at Camp Castor in GAO and at MINUSMA HQ in Bamako, where they carried out assigned tasks in accordance with the mission mandate. Following an original two-year commitment, we subsequently agreed to extend our commitment for a third year, at the end of which Ireland's participation came to a planned conclusion.
The deployment of Defence Forces personnel to all overseas missions is subject to ongoing review, particularly in relation to the safety and security of Irish personnel. That applies to the Defence Forces' participation in EUTM Mali.
34. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will outline his proposals to tackle the recruitment crisis in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5169/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra69. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the progress made by the Government in terms of reaching the targeted number of Defence Forces personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5028/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 69 together.
The report of the Commission on the Defence Forces made it clear that the level of ambition (LOA) for the Defence Forces needed to be elevated beyond that at which it was operating. In that context, Government approved a move, over a six-year period, to a level of Defence Forces’ capability equivalent to LOA 2. This will require an additional 2,000 personnel beyond the current establishment figure of 9,500.
The Defence Forces are developing strategies to achieve increased recruitment and to address the current shortfall in numbers. The target is to realise a Defence Forces strength of 11,500 by 2028, incorporating an appropriate civilian component.
There are a number of recruitment and retention initiatives currently underway aimed at countering ongoing staffing challenges. In respect of recruitment, there is ongoing general service and direct entry recruitment. A separate recruitment competition has also been launched specifically for Air Corps recruits. Direct entry competitions are ongoing as are the re-entry schemes for former members of the Permanent Defence Force. The 'Be More' recruitment campaign, launched last year, highlights the career opportunities available in the Defence Forces and also the wider benefits of membership.
Retention measures include service commitment schemes in the Air Corps and Naval Service, and the sea-going naval personnel tax credit. Agreement has also been secured to allow for an extension in service limits for Privates and Corporals and on an interim arrangement, for sergeants.
There has been significant progress on pay as a result of increases arising from the Public Service Pay Commission report, from recent pay agreements, and the early implementation of some of the recommendations of Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF). The implementation of two of these recommendations, namely personnel of Private 3 Star/Able Seaman rank being paid the full rate of Military Service Allowance (MSA) applicable to the rank; and the removal of the requirement for that cohort to ‘mark time’ for the first three years at that rank, have had a substantial impact on starting pay rates in the Defence Forces, and compare very well to starting pay rates across the public service. The pay rates including Military Service Allowance for the ranks of Private 3 Star/Able Seaman, in their first three years of service start at €36,418 in Year 1, rising to €37,788 in Year 2, and €39,050 in Year 3 of service.
My focus is on bringing the strength of the Defence Forces to the numbers required to meet the agreed level of ambition arising from the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
35. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total number of the Defence Force members who are eligible to receive the Covid pandemic recognition payment; the total number who have received the payment to date (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4947/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra39. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the arrangements that have been made to ensure that former members of the Defence Forces who were involved in the Covid-19 response, for example, administering vaccines, and met the criteria to be categorised as frontline workers, will receive the €1,000 pandemic bonus payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4775/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 39 together.
In January 2022, the Government announced a COVID-19 Pandemic Recognition Payment for front-line public sector healthcare workers, to recognise their unique role during the pandemic. At Government level, the Department of Health has primary policy responsibility for this initiative, with the consent of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
The payment is not subject to income tax, USC, or PRSI. The Government announcement also made provision for a pro-rata application of the payment. The payment amounts to €1,000 for those eligible staff who worked at least 60% Whole Time Equivalent (WTE), for at least 4 weeks during the period between 1 March 2020 and 30 June 2021, and €600 for below 60% WTE. Those who worked less than 4 weeks are not in scope of the measure.
The measure is ring-fenced to eligible staff that were ordinarily onsite in COVID-19 exposed healthcare environments during the pandemic. In terms of Defence Forces personnel, this means members of the Defence Forces redeployed to work in frontline Covid-19 exposed environments in the HSE.
Work to identify all COVID-related duties undertaken by members of the Defence Forces was completed by Military Management as an initial step in identifying personnel who may be eligible for this recognition payment. Significant engagement subsequently took place between officials from the Department of Defence and the Department of Health to determine which of these duties were deemed "in scope" and therefore eligible for this payment, under the Department of Health's scheme.
To date, on the basis of those eligibility criteria, 467 Defence Forces Personnel have been paid the full €1,000 Pandemic Recommendation Payment. This figure includes a number of 55 recently retired or discharged members of the Defence Forces, who were also deemed eligible, having carried out duties deemed in scope. In addition, officials in my Department have advised me that a further 20 members of the Defence Forces will be paid the recognition payment on 8 February next, 4 of whom are recently retired or discharged.
I can assure the Deputy that every effort is being made to ensure that Pandemic Recognition payments continue to be made to eligible Defence Forces members in the shortest possible timeframe, and that assessment remains ongoing where eligible personnel are identified by Military Management.
It is important to note however, that ultimate interpretation of the scheme remains a matter for the Minister for Health, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
36. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his views on Ireland’s participation in a German-led EU battlegroup; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5205/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government recently agreed to my proposal to approve Ireland's participation in the next German-led EU Battlegroup, 2025, which will involve a two-year commitment from 1 January 2024.
Battlegroups are a key component of the capabilities that the EU can make available in support of UN-authorised crisis management operations. Within the EU Battlegroup concept, the purpose of the Battlegroup, as a rapid response capability, includes the role of acting as an initial entry force to stabilise a situation pending the deployment of a follow-on force, to support an established peace support operation which is running into difficulties, and to respond to humanitarian crises.
Ireland has previously participated in the Nordic Battlegroups in 2008, 2011 and 2015, the UK-led EU Battlegroup in 2016 and the German-led Battlegroups in 2012, 2016 and in 2020. Participation in this latest German-led Battlegroup underlines Ireland’s ongoing commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union.
Ireland's full engagement in the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and in the EU Battlegroups significantly enhances our capacity to influence the development of the CSDP and of the Battlegroup concept. Participation also demonstrates Ireland's continuing commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union.
The Defence Forces participation in EU Battlegroups also supports Ireland’s efforts in securing partners for UN operations due to the close civil and military relationships built through our participation.
Experience has shown that Ireland’s previous participation in EU Battlegroups has enhanced the Defence Forces’ ability to work with other nations in a multinational environment and has served to enhance the Defence Forces reputation as a provider of a credible military capability for CSDP peacekeeping operations under UN mandates.
The recent Government decision to participate in an EU Battlegroup relates to the training, preparation and standby phases. It does not presume any further decision in relation to participation in an actual Battlegroup operation. Any such decision is subject to national decision-making procedures which, in Ireland’s case, means the “triple lock” of a UN Mandate and Dáil and Government approval.
40. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his plans, if any, to expand the role of the Air Corps air ambulance service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2032/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Air Corps provides a broad range of services in accordance with its primary defence and security role. It also undertakes a diverse range of non-security related tasks on an "as available" basis including the provision of air ambulance services to the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The HSE's Aeromedical Desk in its National Emergency Operations Centre is responsible for the co-ordination of all health-related air transport arrangements. In addition to the Air Corps, the Irish Coast Guard and private air ambulance operators also provide air transport services for the HSE.
The inter-hospital services and emergency aeromedical service are good examples of the Air Corps and HSE combining their resources to deliver life-saving services for the people of Ireland.
My officials continue to be engaged in bilateral discussions with the Department of Health in relation to the ongoing provision of aeromedical support services to the HSE with the most recent meeting taking place just last week.
