Reserve Defence Forces need clarity on allowance – O’Connell

Members of the Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) should have the details of their Security Duty Allowance published ahead of Irelands EU Presidency, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Deputy Maeve O’Connell said this matter must be dealt with as a priority as the RDF will play a crucial role throughout the EU Presidency.

“Our Defence Force Reservists work incredibly hard and provide valuable services across our island.

“The RDF will be highly visible this week, as hundreds will participate in St. Patrick’s Day Parades across the country, showcasing just how integrated in our communities they truly are.

“Right now, RDF members are ineligible for the Security Duty Allowance, an issue that I and many former and current reservists have raised regularly.

“We know that there are personnel shortages across the Defence Forces, an issue that is being addressed, however in the meantime we know that many reservists are filling vital roles.

“It was encouraging to hear from Minister Helen McEntee that progress is being made as the business case put forward by the RDF has been agreed in principle and there are ongoing discussions between the Department and the Defence Forces about the next steps.

“Over the course of Ireland’s EU Presidency, reservists will be called upon to perform security duties alongside permanent personnel. It is vital that they receive the allowance unlike their permanent colleagues.

“The Government’s current target to grow our RDF to 4,000 members can only be reached if we continue to make service an appealing prospect.

“Minister McEntee is taking significant steps to prepare Ireland for our term of the EU Presidency, and I will continue to work with her to ensure we can get increased support for the RDF,” Deputy O’Connell concluded.