Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 October 2024
140. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of promotions throughout the Army, Navy Service and Air Corps currently awaiting approval at each rank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42359/24]
View answerThe Defence Forces continually monitors staffing requirements and vacancies which can arise as a result of factors such as retirements and promotions. All promotions throughout the three Services i.e. the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps are administered promptly and there are no delays currently. To date in 2024, a total of 181 Officers have been promoted to vacancies across the Army, Naval service and Air Corps. A total of 201 Officers were promoted in 2023.
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) posts are filled through the promotion of suitably qualified soldiers and a promotion competition takes place every two years. Earlier this year consultation between civil/military management and the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) on a proposal for the 2024 NCO promotions concluded with an agreement and the competition launched in August with interview boards scheduled to commence shortly. A separate consultation on the promotion of the junior NCO ranks of Corporal to Sergeant is almost concluded with an associated agreement expected shortly thereafter. A total of 403 personnel were promoted to Sergeant and Higher NCO rank as a result of the 2022 NCO Promotion Competition.
