Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
144. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence how the increase in the raising of the mandatory retirement age in the Defence Forces to 60 years is expected to impact on retention of personnel in the coming five years; if he will publish any research undertaken on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13859/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs of 29 March 2024, all Permanent Defence Forces personnel who currently have a mandatory retirement age of less than 60, may remain in service until 60 subject to fulfilling certain existing criteria, for example physical and medical fitness.
This strategic move will have a two-fold effect. For the organisation, it will help to address, in part, the issue of retention by allowing experienced and skilled personnel to remain in their positions for longer, thereby retaining valuable organisational knowledge, providing continuity and contributing to enhanced training experiences for new recruits. For Defence Forces personnel, the move supports career longevity and provides personnel with the opportunity to continue to contribute meaningfully to the organisation.
In addition, the increase in the mandatory retirement age has facilitated an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 for those roles with a current recruitment age below 39 years.
The impact of the revised retirement age on retention in the coming five years will be closely and regularly monitored and updates provided at appropriate intervals.
My commitment to resolving the recruitment and retention crisis in the Permanent Defence Forces is unwavering. The numbers leaving the Defence Forces exceed the numbers recruited year on year, resulting in a continued decline in the overall strength level. The decision to increase the mandatory retirement age is part of an overall effort to remove any potential obstacles to recruiting and retaining personnel.
Furthermore, a new fast accrual pensions’ policy framework has been approved and the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform is preparing the necessary legislation which, when enacted, will allow for a further increase in the mandatory retirement age for all Permanent Defence Force ranks to 62.
