Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2024
112. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if the full implementation of the Working Time Directive for members of the Defence Forces requires additional expenditure by his Department; if so, the estimated full-year cost of the implementation of the directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36962/24]
View answerI am pleased to advise that following my approval earlier this year of the final management position on the implementation of the Working Time Directive across the Defences, my officials have been actively engaged with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment who are responsible for developing the appropriate legislative mechanism to remove the blanket exemption in the Organisation of Working Time Act.
It is anticipated that for the most part the cost associated with the implementation of the WTD for members of the Defence Forces will be absorbed as part of day to day budget management. Any potential costings however, remain under active consideration at this time.
One of the key costs associated with its implementation is the procurement of a robust and functional Time and Attendance System to suit the requirements of a workforce such as the Defence Forces. A procurement process for such a system has commenced with expressions of interest sought. These responses are currently being considered. Given the current status of the procurement process it is not prudent for me to specify costs at this point.
While there will potentially be other associated costs arising such as the development by the Defence Forces of a non-financial labour budget hours management tool, these are not anticipated to be ongoing costs.
It is, however, worth mentioning that the Military Authorities have advised that a high percentage of the normal everyday work of the Defence Forces is already in compliance with the Working Time Directive.
