Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2024
41. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the payment rates for members of the Army Ranger Wing; if he will report on discussions in relation to improving their pay and conditions; if it is intended that any agreement would be backdated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10942/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2023, I sanctioned, with the agreement of the Minister and Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery & Reform, the implementation of the Decision of the Arbitration Board under the Schemes for Conciliation & Arbitration for the Civil Service, Defence Forces and Teachers regarding the Claim by the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) for an increase in the Army Ranger Wing (ARW) Allowance, with effect from 1st October 2021.
The Department’s Finance Branch has processed both the increase and the ensuing back pay element arising from the Board’s decision, with 1st October 2021 as the effective implementation date.
The decision of the Arbitration Board under the Schemes for Conciliation & Arbitration for the Civil Service, Defence Forces and Teachers regarding the Claim by the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) also recommended, and in line with the 2010 Adjudicator’s finding, that further three yearly reviews should take place. The next review is due to take place later this year.
The current rates of ARW allowances (last increased on 1st October 2023) are €292.47 per week for post-2013 enlisted personnel (€280.44 for pre-2013), and €283.25 per week for officers.
