Defence Force Commission report due in coming weeks

The Minister for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation and Fianna Fáil TD for Longford-Westmeath, Robert Troy, has welcomed an update from Minister of State Jack Chambers that the work of the Commission on Defence Forces pay and conditions is nearing conclusion with a report expected to be issued in the coming weeks.

Minister Troy commented: “The commission was established in December 2020 and its work has been ongoing since then. The establishment of the commission was a critical part of the Programme For Government and a key commitment locally as this issue affects so many current, and former service people in Westmeath, and their families.

“I have been informed by my party colleague and Minister of State at the Department of Defence Jack Chambers that a report is due next month.”

The Longford-Westmeath TD added: “It is important that all outstanding issues of pay and conditions are dealt with as soon as possible to provide clarity for Defence Forces members and their families. They play such a vital and important role in many ways across the entire country, including throughout the pandemic. I have made submissions to the commission myself in this regard.”

The Commission was mandeted to review matters such as the structure of the Defence Forces, pay and allowances structures, recruitment retention and career progression and the contribution of the Reserve Defence Force.

Upon completion of the Commission's work, a permanent pay review body is due to be established, reflecting the unique nature of military service in the context of the public service.

The review was also taked with looking at the structure of the Defence Forces, including the number of brigades.

The restoration of the Western Brigade was included in the Fianna Fail election manifesto but was not included in the agreed coalition Programme for Government.

Athlone-Moate Municipal District of Westmeath County Council made a submission to the commission calling for the restoration of the 4th Western Brigade and the reestablishment of its headquarters in Custume Barracks.

Speaking in 2020, Troy said the introduction of the commission represented an opportunity to move the restoration of the brigade forward and "hopefully to achieve what is our party's position which is the re-establishment of the 4th Western Brigade.”