Robert Troy
Ceist:20. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the actions he is taking to optimise retention amongst Defence Forces members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13265/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 21 March 2024
Ceisteanna (20, 42)
Michael Moynihan
Ceist:42. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the measures he is taking to increase retention levels in the Permanent Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13021/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 42 together.
The ongoing staffing challenges in the Defence Forces with regard to recruitment and retention are fully acknowledged and well documented. In this, we are no different to other international militaries who, in a competitive labour market, are also experiencing similar difficulties.
The immediate focus for me as Minister for Defence is on stabilising the numbers of personnel, and to facilitate capacity for further increases.
In light of the Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) Report and the Report of the Independent Review (IRG) Group, I have prioritised a significant programme of reform and culture change within the Defence Forces to ensure that it is an equal opportunities employer, reflective of contemporary Irish society and providing a work-place underpinned by dignity, equality and mutual respect.
The Strategic Framework for the Transformation of the Defence Forces, which I published last September, sets out clear targets for the vital work that is underway relating to the transformation of the Defence Forces and outlines the necessary actions to be delivered by the end of 2024.
A number of specific actions in the area of retention have already been delivered:-
• Significant progress on pay in recent years;
• The recent changes to Patrol Duty Allowance to incentivise sea-going in the Naval Service;
• The extension of a Naval Service personnel tax credit for one further year;
• Commissioning from the ranks and the re-entry of former Permanent Defence Force personnel with specific skills;
• The extension of private healthcare to all ranks in the Defence Forces;
• Access to free medical, physiotherapy and dental care;
• Provision of fitness, training and sports facilities across its installations;
• Provision of fully funded opportunities to continue education to gain professional and academic qualifications;
• Progress on the 2023-2027 Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) with the highest level of financial resources in the State’s history;.
• A revised policy on maternity and protected leave which is fully aligned with national legislation
• A new policy on grooming standards
• The removal of the blanket exemption for the Defence Forces, from the provisions of the Organisation of Working time Act. A final management position was approved by me on 2 February. I recently met with the Representative Associations to discuss that position and formal engagement is now commencing with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) who will lead on the development of the appropriate legislative mechanism.
• The implementation of a range of work-life balance and 'harmony' initiatives.
In addition and more recently, I announced that with effect from 29 March 2024, the mandatory retirement age will extend to 60 years, for all ranks that currently have a mandatory retirement age below this age.
Further measures that are also being progressed include:-
• A Review of Medical Services in the Defence Forces, with the review itself being progressed during 2024.
• Associate membership of ICTU for the Representative Associations to be underpinned by legislation.
• In a further effort to increase the potential to attract specialist expertise in key technical positions, an increase to 50 years in the maximum age of recruitment for relevant Direct Entry Officer competitions is being progressed.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the recruitment and retention of Defence Forces Personnel continues to be a key priority for me and this is demonstrated by the priorities I have set out in the Strategic Framework.