Leave for Reserve Defence Forces essential to grow force – O’Connell

The introduction of Reservist Leave would ensure that members of our Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) are fully supported to fulfil the duties of their role, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Maeve O’Connell said that we if want to actively support and build up our Reserves, it’s vital that reservist leave is introduced.

“Currently there is no requirement for employers to provide time off for RDF training. Our Reservists have been forced to take time off from work and use their annual leave days simply to fulfil some of their RDF obligations.

“Many other countries, like Australia, recognise the vital service that their Reservists provide. In Australia employers must release Reservists for defence services including training and can’t disadvantage them because of their service. It’s time that we start doing the same in Ireland.

“We must make provisions to enable employers to support and encourage their employees that undertake this civic duty.

“It’s not fair to ask people to give up their annual leave days to perform a public service.”

The Programme for Government commits to introduce financial supports for Irish SMEs that facilitate staff serving in the Reserve Defence Force. Engagement with the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment is ongoing and it is planned to host a series of meetings with stakeholders later this year. These meetings will also include discussions on financial supports for Irish SMEs who release staff for RDF duties.

“Reservists are expected to participate in a minimum of seven days full time training per year, which for many is a significant amount of their annual leave allowance.

“Introducing a reservist leave would not only help encourage people to join the RDF, but also significantly boost morale for our Reservists.

“If we want to grow our Reserves, we must ensure that our volunteers do not lose out as a result of having to balance their service with a full-time job,” Deputy O’Connell concluded.