James O'Connor
Question:146. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Defence if she will report on the planned investment in the Naval Service under the revised NDP. [53899/26]
View answerNaval Service
Questions (146)
Written answers
A key priority for me as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the current operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained and further developed. In the context of an evolving geopolitical and security environment, it is essential that Ireland continues to enhance the capabilities and infrastructure of the Defence Forces, including those required to safeguard our maritime domain.
Capability priorities for the Defence Forces including the Naval Service are considered as part of the capability development planning processes which include planning cycles for equipment and infrastructure.
The Equipment Development Plan manages requirements for the immediately term and recognises the need to maintain and upgrade military capabilities having regard to emerging priorities, operational requirements and changes in technology. There is a significant body of work currently underway to ensure that the Defence Forces have the required capabilities with equipment projects in various stages of the project lifecycle.
For example, one of the key projects underway that will contribute to maritime security relates to subsea domain awareness. Investment in sonar capability is the first project within that new programme which will see the Naval Service acquire sonar capability which will be used to detect objects near cables and pipelines in Irish territorial waters and the EEZ. This new acquisition will enhance awareness below the surface, contributing to the overall maritime picture available to Naval Service and the wider Defence Forces.
Work has also commenced on Sonobuoys, the second project within that subsea programme. This project will result in a new Air Corps capability which can be used to detect, localise, identify, and track objects in the Irish EEZ. This capability will be used in conjunction with the new towed sonar capability planned for delivery in 2027, and also with existing Air Corps assets.
For equipment requirements in the short, medium and long term, my Department is developing a Capability Development Programme, that will identify, at a high level, the capability requirements for the Defence Forces out to 2040. This programme will inform future decisions on the prioritisation and development of capabilities, including those in the maritime domain, in support of the strategic Level of Ambition 2 set out in the Defence Policy Review, the Maritime Security Strategy and the objectives outlined in the Strategic Framework and the updated Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces. I expect this Programme to be finalised in 2026.
Once finalised, the Programme will be implemented through three rolling four-year Capability Development Plans, the first of which will cover the period 2028 to 2032. Capabilities will then be developed and acquired in line with available capital allocations under the National Development Plan. This structured and phased approach will guide future investment decisions, including in relation to naval vessels, equipment and enabling systems, as part of the overall development of Defence Forces capability.
In terms of Infrastructure Investment, since 2020, the value of capital infrastructure works completed at Haulbowline Naval Base is €20.6m. The most notable project completed was the accommodation refurbishment of Block 4 in April 2025 at a cost of €8M. There is currently €15.4m worth of works under construction which include Modular Accommodation, Block 9 refurbishment and the Dredging and Removal of a Dock Gate. A significant level of investment is planned for Haulbowline with numerous projects at various stages of procurement and design such as the Upgrade of the Old Comms Building – Cadet Accommodation, refurbishment and upgrade of Block 6 &10, a new Gym and the remediation of the ISPAT site.
In order to further progress development of Defence Forces infrastructure more quickly and to increase economies of scale, it is planned to develop a series of masterplans for each installation to future-proof for the next 20-30 years. This approach will identify from the outset the infrastructure requirements in line with capability development for each installation with an associated prioritisation of projects and a phased timeline for delivery.
These plans will dovetail with developments identified under the current Infrastructure Development Plan and will also layout requirements for the years from 2027 onwards. The masterplan process for the Naval Base, Haulbowline is underway and is expected to be completed shortly.
Defence Forces
Questions (147)
Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Question:147. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Defence her views on the matter of there being no adjudicator in place for the Defence Forces conciliation and arbitration scheme since June 2025; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54265/26]
View answerWritten answers
Thank you Deputy for raising this issue.
As you may be aware, efforts to nominate an Adjudicator for the Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) Scheme for the Permanent Defence Forces have been underway for some time. The C&A Scheme for the Defence Forces is the primary mechanism for addressing industrial relations issues in the Defence sector. It supports constructive engagement between management and military representative associations on issues of interest to members of the Permanent Defence Forces that come within the scope of representation.
The Scheme provides for an Arbitration process to assist in the resolution of disputes which remain unresolved following engagement and which become the subject of formal disagreement. The Scheme includes provision for an Adjudicator and an Arbitration Board.
Under the agreed Terms of Reference of the C&A Scheme, the Adjudicator and Arbitration Board appointments are mutually agreed by both sides. Unfortunately, agreement has not yet been reached on the nomination of an Adjudicator for the Scheme since the term of the previous Adjudicator expired on 30 June 2025. The Arbitration Board is in situ and is prepared to hear cases in the absence of an Adjudicator, if necessary. However, the preference of all parties involved is to agree on the nomination of an Adjudicator.
There has been considerable engagement between the Department of Defence, the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation and the military representative associations on the appointment. I recently wrote to my colleague Minister Chambers regarding the importance of reaching agreement in the interest of continuing constructive engagement and an effective Industrial Relations structure. I hope that the matter will be resolved to the satisfaction of all parties as soon as possible.
Naval Service
Questions (148)
Naoise Ó Muirí
Question:148. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide an update on the Commission on the Defence Forces recommendation to develop an accelerated programme of Naval Service vessel replacement to ensure a balanced fleet of nine modern ships by early in the next decade; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53959/26]
View answerWritten answers
My priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained and developed. This is to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government.
The capital funding of €1.7 billion allocated to Defence in the latest National Development Plan covering the period 2026 to 2030 represents an increase of €600 million on the previous baseline of €1.1 billion. The revised capital allocations will enable targeted progression on key elements of Government commitments within LOA 2 objectives.
Capital investment in Defence primarily provides for the renewal, retention and acquisition of major defence equipment and infrastructural platforms. This expenditure enhances and supports military capabilities and therefore contributes to a more secure and resilient society. As Defence capital expenditure is often atypical, with long lead-in times, the funding certainty now provided will support the internal Equipment Development Plan and Infrastructural Development Planning Frameworks.
The Naval Service currently has a fleet of eight commissioned vessels. These eight vessels consist of two P50 Class Large Patrol Vessels, four P60 Class Offshore Patrol Vessels and two P70 Inshore Patrol Vessels. Capital investment in the Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme is ongoing. The programme of works for the midlife refit and upgrade of the two P50 class vessels has been completed and planning has recently commenced on a similar programme for the four P60 class vessels. The two P70 class Inshore Patrol Vessels, purchased from the New Zealand Government, were commissioned into State service as LÉ Aoibhinn and LÉ Gobnait in 2024.
The Commission on the Defence Forces specifically recommended a programme of naval vessel replacement under Level of Ambition 2. This recommendation was accepted in principle by Government. As set out in the Update to the Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces, decisions on the shape and timing of the Naval vessel replacement to ensure a balanced fleet by early in the next decade will be made and subsequently progressed from 2026 and beyond.
These decisions will be made in the context of the Capability Development Programme 2028 – 2040 which is under preparation in my Department and which will identify and cost, at a high level, the capability requirements for the Defence Forces out to 2040 across all domains of operation, including the maritime and subsea domain. I also requested the Defence Forces to prepare a regeneration report for the Naval Service to address the challenges faced in recent years and to plot a path forward for the future direction of the Naval Service.
Informed by these plans, decisions will be made on the composition of the balanced fleet of modern ships and the greater use of technologies. These decisions will also be informed by other relevant information, including the new National Maritime Security Strategy.
Defence Forces
Questions (149)
Thomas Gould
Question:149. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel currently living in Haulbowline and Collins Barracks. [52759/26]
View answerWritten answers
I thank the Deputy for his interest in this matter, as it allows me, as Minister for Defence, to provide an outline of the significant progress made in modernising our accommodation and infrastructure in Haulbowline and Collins Barracks, Cork.
Since 2020, the value of capital infrastructure works completed at Haulbowline Naval Base is €20.6m. The most notable project completed was the refurbishment of accommodation in Block 4 in April 2025 at a cost of €8M.
There is currently €17.5m worth of works under construction which include Modular Accommodation, Block 9 Office refurbishment and the Dredging and Removal of a Dock Gate. A significant level of investment is planned for Haulbowline over the coming years with numerous projects at various stages of procurement and design, such as the Upgrade of the Old Comms Building – Cadet Accommodation, refurbishment and upgrade of Accommodation Blocks 6 &10, a new Gym and the remediation of the former ISPAT site.
In Collins Barracks, Cork, since 2021 the value of capital infrastructure works completed is €6.25m. The most notable project completed was the New Accommodation Block at a cost of €4.49m in March 2024. There is currently €7.4m worth of works under construction which include the refurbishment of Block 1 Officer/NCO Accommodation, upgrade Main Gate Entry Control Point and the refurbishment of Security Duty Centre. Continued investment is ongoing, with two key projects to the value of €4.25M currently at procurement stages; Modular Accommodation and the Upgrade of Ablutions to Accommodation Block 12 and 13.
The Deputy will appreciate that for security and operational reasons it would not be appropriate to comment further in relation to DF personnel dispositions at a particular location.
Ambulance Service
Questions (150)
Michael Cahill
Question:150. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces will provide a base for an ambulance base at Iveragh Park, Killorglin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54120/26]
View answerWritten answers
The premises in Killorglin is currently used extensively by the Defence Forces as a headquarters for military exercises, tactical training and to aid both the Civil Power and Civil Authority activities in the area. My Department has engaged with the National Ambulance Service (NAS) on this matter and have discussed a number of options, including the potential to place a modular building, for the use of the NAS, to the rear of the Defence Forces building.
The Defence Forces have considered options for accommodating the NAS at the site and I understand have some concerns regarding same and to that end my Department will engage with the NAS with a view to addressing all concerns.
Defence Forces
Questions (151)
Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Question:151. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Defence for a report on the proposed refurbishment of accommodation at blocks A-F in Stephens Barracks. [53704/26]
View answerWritten answers
I thank the Deputy for his interest in the development of Stephens Barracks and for the opportunity to discuss the progress that has been made there. The Deputy may wish to note that the project to which he refers has progressed to a detailed design which is required before proceeding to a tender competition and is currently being progressed by an external Design Team.
Defence Forces
Questions (152)
Peadar Tóibín
Question:152. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Defence the financial, technological, industrial, research, training, procurement or other commitments that would be required from Ireland under the proposed Ukrainian drone deal; what Ireland has been asked to provide in return for participation; whether any commitments have been given by the Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53275/26]
View answerWritten answers
As the Deputy will be aware, I attended a meeting between the Taoiseach and the Ukrainian President in Dublin Castle during the opening ceremony of the EU Presidency on 1st July 2026. The meeting covered a broad range of topics of mutual interest to both countries, including a brief high-level discussion on potential opportunities for cooperation in the area of drone technology. Specific information on the details of the Ukrainian proposal were not discussed during this meeting.
Defence Forces
Questions (153, 155, 184)
John Connolly
Question:153. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Defence the way in which she is ensuring that experienced personnel with the Defence Forces can see a long-term future for themselves and their families within the organisation. [53701/26]
View answer
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Question:155. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Defence her plans to improve retention in Óglaigh na hÉireann; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53936/26]
View answer
Ryan O'Meara
Question:184. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Defence the action being taken to increase retention levels in the Defence Forces; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54132/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 153, 155 and 184 together.
Ensuring that Defence Forces personnel not only see a future within the organisation but can build a long-term career in the Defence Forces is a key priority for me. The retention of experienced personnel is fundamental to maintaining the operational effectiveness, readiness and resilience of the Defence Forces.
Central to this is stabilising personnel numbers and creating the capacity for sustained growth.
Turnover levels in the Permanent Defence Force are carefully monitored and data provided by the Defence Forces indicates that turnover rates have reduced over the last two years with a turnover rate of approximately 7.6% in 2025. This is significantly less than the turnover rate of 9% recorded for 2024 and is a very positive turnover rate when compared with militaries internationally where annual attrition rates of 8 to 12 per cent are typical.
To mitigate attrition and strengthen workforce stability several measures are being implemented, including increases in the maximum ages of recruitment and retirement, the extension of private secondary healthcare to all personnel, the application of the provisions of the Working Time Directive across the Defence Forces subject to certain exemptions, increases to Patrol Duty allowance payable to Naval Service personnel at sea, and extension of the Naval Service tax credit to 2029.
In addition, Local Bargaining measures are being introduced to support initiatives to improve retention in key capability areas.
A draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has been submitted to me for consideration. The draft plan sets out a roadmap for building and sustaining the future workforce. As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of this process is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2.
The continued implementation of cultural and organisational reforms, alongside sustained investment in infrastructure, accommodation, equipment, and capability development, is fundamental to improving retention and building a Defence Forces where people feel supported, recognised, and confident in their long-term future.
Defence Forces
Questions (154)
Albert Dolan
Question:154. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Defence the assessment that has been carried out of the Defence Forces' capability to support security and protection operations during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the European Union; and the additional resources, personnel or equipment being put in place to ensure the State is adequately prepared for any security threats arising during the Presidency. [54127/26]
View answerWritten answers
With regard to security preparations, the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the national security of the State, and in this instance for security operations during the EU Presidency period. The Defence Forces is prepared to provide assistance to An Garda Síochána in the role of Aid of the Civil Power as may be requested by An Garda Síochána by means of a C70 request form.
It is not appropriate for me, as Minister for Defence, to comment on specific security arrangements that may be put in place, as this is a matter for An Garda Síochána. Similarly the Defence Forces cannot comment on any specific arrangements due to operational security concerns which may impact the safety of visiting dignitaries, members of the public, or deployed Defence Forces personnel. I can confirm that the Defence Forces has stood up a Joint Task Force to coordinate any Defence Forces supports to operations conducted during the EU Presidency period. They are in close contact with An Garda Síochána in order to ensure the best supports the Defence Forces can provide are available when needed.
In addition, the Defence Forces continue to conduct training in a number of roles across land, sea and air to be fully prepared to support An Garda Síochána during this period.
Financial arrangements for equipment, duties etc. conducted by the Defence Forces during this period will be met within existing budget allocations as provided by Government.
Question No. 155 answered with Question No. 153.
Question No. 155 answered with Question No. 153.
Cybersecurity Policy
Questions (156)
Barry Ward
Question:156. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding Ireland’s preparedness for a significant cyber-attack on Department of Defence offices and institutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52706/26]
View answerWritten answers
Thank you Deputy for the question. At national level, the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration leads on cyber security policy. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), an operational arm of the Department, is the State’s primary authority for cyber security and is supported by An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces in the security domain.
The NCSC leads the management of major cyber incidents across Government, provides guidance to citizens, businesses and the public sector, and supports international cooperation and information sharing.
I can confirm for the Deputy that both myself and my Department place a high priority on cyber security and the Department operates in line with NCSC guidance. The Department participates in the Government Cyber Security Coordination & Response (GovCORE) network to support information sharing and best practice across the public sector.
Core IT infrastructure in my Department is delivered by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) under the ‘Build to Share Managed Desktop’ shared service. In partnership with the OGCIO, the Department applies a defence-in-depth approach to cyber security, combining people, processes and technology. This includes an Information Security Management System aligned with ISO 27001:2022 to ensure a consistent and effective approach to managing cyber risks.
Separately, the Defence Forces have established a Joint Cyber Defence Command, as recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces, to strengthen the State’s capability in the cyber domain.
From an operational perspective, it would not be appropriate to comment on specific cyber security measures.
Question No. 157 answered with Question No. 125.
Departmental Policies
Questions (158)
Paul McAuliffe
Question:158. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Defence the way in which Ireland is using the Security Action for Europe, SAFE, Regulation to enhance Ireland's defence capability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53699/26]
View answerWritten answers
Since entering into force on 29 May 2025, the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument has become a significant new EU mechanism, providing Member States with access to up to €150 billion in EU-backed loans to support national defence investment. A decision was taken in August 2025, in conjunction with the Department of Finance and D/PER that Ireland would not draw down funding via the loan mechanism.
Ireland is fully committed to taking advantage of joint procurement opportunities available under SAFE, where these projects are aligned with our capability development plans. In line with this approach, Ireland has opened up the contract for the supply of Integrated Modular Body Armour Systems to other Member States through the EDA G2G platform.
Prior to the launch of SAFE, Ireland initiated several significant defence acquisitions using a government-to-government procurement strategy. These are in the areas of military radar, counter drone, armoured vehicles and subsea awareness. Ireland will continue to work with other governments (including through SAFE) and the European Defence Agency to procure future capabilities.
The window for Member States to express interest in the current SAFE instrument has now closed. However, the European Commission has indicated that there may be scope for a second round in 2026. The Commission has stressed that it cannot consider a further call until all participating Member States have finalised their loan agreements under the current scheme.
Any decision on Ireland drawing down SAFE loans would require the support of both the Department of Finance and the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation. In that context, any decision to avail of SAFE funding will be considered as part of a broader assessment of defence investment priorities, including those set out under the forthcoming Capability Development Programme (2028-2040).
Defence Forces
Questions (159)
John McGuinness
Question:159. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence the factors considered by Government before authorising the participation of Irish troops in peacekeeping missions. [54133/26]
View answerWritten answers
Before authorising the participation of members of the Defence Forces in any overseas peacekeeping mission, the Government carefully assesses a range of legal, policy, operational and strategic considerations to ensure that any deployment is appropriate, lawful and consistent with Ireland's values and international obligations.
A primary consideration is whether the proposed mission is consistent with Irish law and Ireland's foreign policy objectives. The Government must be satisfied that participation would support international peace and security and be in keeping with the principles that guide Ireland's international engagement.
The Government also examines the purpose and mandate of the operation, including the extent to which it contributes to peacekeeping, conflict prevention, crisis management or the strengthening of international security. Consideration is given to the legal framework governing the mission, its rules of engagement and the overall concept of operations.
Any proposal to deploy Defence Forces personnel overseas is informed by detailed military advice and comprehensive policy analysis. This process includes consultation across Government and engagement with relevant international partners, ensuring that all operational, diplomatic and security implications are fully considered before a decision is made.
The Government also has regard to the organisations and partner nations involved in a mission. Confidence that a mission will be conducted in a manner consistent with international law and Ireland's principles and values is an important factor in the decision-making process.
Any future decisions on Defence Forces participation in overseas missions will continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking account of the legal basis for the mission, its objectives, its consistency with Ireland's foreign policy and international obligations, and the advice available to Government at the time.
Defence Forces
Questions (160)
John Connolly
Question:160. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Defence the measures she is taking to improve terms and conditions for members of the Defence Forces. [53702/26]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset I would like to highlight the significant progress that the government has made on pay and conditions for Defence Force personnel, particularly over the last number of years.
For context, in October 2020 a newly qualified three-star private could have expected to earn €29,326 gross per annum, on completion of his/her initial training.
Following the implementation of a number of pay related Commission on Defence Forces recommendations, coupled with ongoing pay increases being applied as part of national pay agreements, at present a Private 3*, on completion of recruit training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), starts at:
• €42,890 in Year 1
• €44,329 in Year 2
• €45,655 in Year 3
Equally, for the Officer cohort, a 2nd Lieutenant - entry rank for school leaver cadet on commissioning - was paid €37,664 in October 2020. As of 01 June 2026 they are now paid €46,823. After 2 years they are promoted to lieutenant and their pay rises to €52,265.
Where a graduate joins – the pay rate on commissioning begins at €52,265.
These rates all include pensionable military service allowance, which is an allowance that is paid to all ranks up to and including the rank of Colonel, for the unpredictable nature of work in the Defence Forces.
In the conversation surrounding the pay and conditions of members of the Defence Forces, it is important to point out that in addition to basic pay and military service allowance, certain positions in the Defence Forces also attract specialist, technical pay and service commitment schemes. Additionally there is scope for further income from duty allowances for specific duties carried, out on an ongoing basis, as well as the possibility of earning a tax-free duty allowance, starting at €15,000, for a 6 month overseas deployment.
The Deputy may also be aware of the changes to Patrol Duty Allowance for Naval Service personnel which came into effect on 1 January 2024. This measure resulted in the Patrol Duty Allowance being doubled after ten days at sea.
Key changes introduced to broader conditions include extension of private medical care to all personnel; increases to mandatory retirement ages and recruitment ages, and in 2025, the removal of the blanket exemption from the Organisation of the Working Time Act, the extension of a service commitment scheme for pilots in the Air Corps to their Air Traffic Control colleagues.
In addition, with the enactment of the Defence Amendment Act 2024, the Defence Forces Representative Associations have been granted associate membership of ICTU, which enables ICTU to represent them at the national pay talks.
As outlined, positive progress has been made on pay and conditions in the Defence Forces. I will continue to keep pay and conditions under review, to ensure that we continue to attract high calibre personnel into the Defence Forces.
Increases in application numbers and in the overall strength of the PDF, over the last three years, demonstrate that the key enabling measures which the Government has introduced to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention are yielding results.
Defence Forces
Questions (161)
Seán Crowe
Question:161. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence to report on any anti-drone technology that has been acquired by the Defence Forces for use during the EU Presidency; if training on the system has been completed; if it is operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53953/26]
View answerWritten answers
One of my key priorities as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained and developed in line with the Government’s decision to move to Level of Ambition 2 (LOA2), as defined by the Commission on the Defence Forces (CODF).
The Military Radar Programme is central to this and I am pleased to say that very good progress is being made in this regard. This Programme provides for the delivery of a suite of military radar systems and also takes account of the need to enhance our Ground Based Air Defence capabilities, which includes Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS).
While full delivery of the overall Programme will be complex, it has been prioritised with a target date of the end of 2028 identified in the updated CODF Detailed Implementation Plan, which I published recently, for the development of a complete "Recognised Air Picture". That being said, with Ireland assuming the Presidency of the Council of the European Union earlier this month, I had prioritised the accelerated delivery of C-UAS capabilities for the Defence Forces and, following Dáil approval last December of a Supplementary Estimate, contractual arrangements were put in place which enabled delivery of these capabilities during the first half of this year, and which I can confirm are now operational.
In line with the ongoing roll-out of these capabilities, a wide range of equipment and tactical level training of military personnel has been ongoing since earlier this year while further roll-out of C-UAS capabilities will continue this year.
Defence Forces
Questions (162)
Keira Keogh
Question:162. Deputy Keira Keogh asked the Minister for Defence the resources that have been provided to support the Defence Forces' capacity in the event of extreme weather; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53694/26]
View answerWritten answers
At the outset, I should say that the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and his Department are the Lead Government Department for preparing and responding to severe weather events.
Ireland's policy on cross-government emergency management is detailed in the document titled Strategic Emergency Management: National Structures and Framework. Ireland operates a lead government department model in emergency planning. The lead government department has the mandate and responsibility to coordinate all national level activity for its assigned emergency types. The Lead Government Department role includes risk assessment, planning and preparedness, prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery.
The Office of Emergency Planning, in my Department, assists and provides support to the Lead Government Departments during emergency events.
Turning to the role of the Defence Forces during extreme weather events, as the Deputy will be aware, the Defence Forces are not the first responders in either the preparedness nor in the recovery phase of such events. Their role, when called upon, is to assist civilian authorities in dealing with the various challenges which can present. Supports provided by the Defence Forces range from the provision of helicopter flights carrying ESB personnel in order to identify the extent of the affected network, to collection and distribution of equipment to different sectors requiring assistance or filling and distribution of sandbags etc.
The Defence Forces continues to stand ready to assist in emergency scenarios as part of the whole-of-Government, whole-of-society response at both the national and local level. Based on their performance during the most recent events, I am satisfied that the Defence Forces are readily prepared to assist when called upon.
Defence Forces
Questions (163, 171, 172)
Sean Fleming
Question:163. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Defence when she expects the permanent Defence Forces to attain the agreed establishment strength of 9,739; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53697/26]
View answer
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:171. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the current strength of the permanent Defence Forces by, Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53695/26]
View answerRyan O'Meara
Question:172. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Defence the action being taken to increase recruitment to the Defence Forces; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54131/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 163, 171 and 172 together.
As Minister for Defence, I am fully committed to increasing and strengthening recruitment and supporting retention in the Permanent Defence Force.
The Military Authorities advise that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,823 personnel consisting of 6,186 Army, 782 Air Corps and 855 Naval Service, on the 31 May the latest date for which this figure is available. This represents a year on year increase of more than 200 personnel.
Last year saw a modest, though significant, growth in the overall strength with a total of 790 inductions achieved- the highest in twenty years - and the number of personnel who discharged was at its lowest level in more than five years. I am determined to build on the expansion in personnel numbers achieved and have set a target of 850 inductions for 2026.
I am pleased that there continues to be very strong interest in a career in the Defence Forces with a total of 16,510 applications received in 2025 and over 10,000 applications received to end May 2026. The challenge now for the Defence Forces is to convert the high level of applications to inductions. A draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has recently been submitted to me for consideration. As the Deputy will be aware, the aim of this process is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2.
Increases in application numbers and in the overall strength of the PDF, over the last three years, demonstrate that the key enabling measures which the Government has introduced to support and drive Defence Forces recruitment and retention are yielding results. There also continues to be significant progress on pay with all personnel benefiting from a further pay award delivered earlier this month.
In addition, a wide ranging programme of capital investment in Defence Forces infrastructure, aimed at facilitating and enabling greater levels of recruitment and retention, continues apace. I was pleased to see first hand the significant progress being made during my visit to the Joint Induction Training Centre in Gormanston Barracks, an impressive facility which will, eventually, provide for the training of up to 900 recruits per annum. I was also proud to officially open the USAC building in Galway in February last - a 69 bed state of the art accommodation facility which was completed at a cost of €12.3 million,- and, in April, to officially open the refurbished Block 4 accommodation building in the Naval Service Base, Haulbowline, which will accommodate an additional 74 personnel following an investment of €8.8million.
Opportunities for careers in the Defence Forces remain open via a diverse range of ongoing competitions including general service recruitment, re-entry schemes and multiple direct entry competitions for specialist roles.
Underpinning these and other measures, I ensured that Budget 2026 provided a record allocation of €1.49 billion for the Defence Sector, an increase of €145 million on 2025. These funds include provision for the recruitment of a net 400 additional PDF members per annum. Furthermore the capability framework devised by the Commission on Defence Forces provides for an increase in the Defence budget to €1.5 billion by 2028, index linked to inflation, as part of the annual estimates processes. This level of funding increase will allow for the required substantial transformation and investment in recruitment and equipment identified by the Commission.
Significant strides continue to be made on a number of fronts and the allocation of record levels of expenditure, coupled with the initiatives I have outlined here, is illustrative of my commitment to building on the growth in recruitment and the stabilisation in retention achieved in recent years.
Commemorative Events
Questions (164)
Seán Crowe
Question:164. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans for a public commemoration ceremony to mark the end of the UNIFIL mission given its pre-eminence in terms of Irish involvement with UN peacekeeping due to the number of personnel who have served in Lebanon since Ireland’s first involvement almost a half century ago; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53954/26]
View answerWritten answers
UNIFIL holds a unique and special place in the history of the Defence Forces and in Ireland's contribution to international peacekeeping. Since our first deployment to Lebanon in 1978, many thousands of Irish servicewomen and men have served with great distinction under the UN flag, earning an international reputation for professionalism, courage and dedication in what has often been a challenging and complex operational environment. In addition, we cannot forget the sacrifice of those who gave up their lives in the pursuit of peace - 47 Defence Forces personnel lost their lives while serving with the Mission.
At present there are no current plans for a public commemoration ceremony to mark the end of the UNIFIL mission. Given that UNIFIL remains an active mission, that the Government's focus at this current time, together with that of the Defence Forces, is on continuing to fulfil our responsibilities under the mission mandate and on supporting the safe, orderly and effective completion of the mission in 2027.
As the Deputy will be aware, on 28 August 2025, the United Nations Security Council renewed the UNIFIL mandate until the end of 2026. A drawdown and withdrawal process is expected to take place during 2027, and there remains a significant degree of planning and coordination to be undertaken before the mission concludes.
Defence Forces planning is currently underway for the deployment of the next battalion rotation in November 2026. The composition and duration of that deployment will be assessed once UNIFIL issues its operational orders outlining the drawdown arrangements and withdrawal timelines for troop-contributing countries.
The withdrawal of a mission that has been in place for decades is a substantial undertaking. Detailed contingency planning is underway involving the United Nations, troop-contributing countries and the Lebanese authorities. Key priorities include maintaining operational stability throughout the drawdown period, mitigating security and logistical risks, ensuring the responsible management of assets and infrastructure, and safeguarding all personnel involved.
The Force Commander of UNIFIL has been tasked with developing the detailed sequencing and timing of the drawdown and withdrawal process, and troop-contributing countries expect to receive further information on those arrangements in the autumn.
Accordingly, the Government's immediate priority remains supporting the successful completion of UNIFIL and ensuring the safe return of Defence Forces personnel involved in the mission. Once the mission has formally concluded and Ireland's participation has come to an end, it may be then more appropriate to consider how best to recognise and commemorate Ireland's long and distinguished service with UNIFIL.
Defence Forces
Questions (165)
Brendan Smith
Question:165. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if she will report on the planned €400 million investment in Defence Forces infrastructure under the revised NDP. [53895/26]
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In December last year, I was very pleased to announce the record allocation of €1.7 billion in NDP capital funding for Defence from now until 2030. This represents an increase of €600 million (55%) on the previous baseline of €1.1 billion. For 2026, the Defence capital allocation has increased by €66 million to €300 million. This is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities, equipment and accommodation for our Defence Forces.
The Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) currently sets out a programme of infrastructural project delivery to 2027. It reflects the complex environment in which the Defence Forces operate and the corresponding need for appropriate infrastructure to provide for the accommodation and training of personnel, as well as the maintenance and storage of equipment.
In order to progress Defence Forces infrastructural projects more efficiently and deliver economies of scale, my Department is currently developing a series of infrastructural masterplans. These masterplans will identify the infrastructure requirements for each installation along with an associated prioritisation schedule and a phased timeline for delivery. These plans will dovetail with developments identified under the current IDP and will also lay out requirements for the years from 2027 onwards.
Over the 2026-2030 timeframe of the Defence NDP, I have committed €400 million in funding for infrastructural investment, a level of funding which will deliver enhanced accommodation, offices, gyms etc to military installations nationwide, together with more targeted investment on the development of specific requirements such as aircraft hangars and naval berthage capacity.
The capital allocation for 2025 stood at €50m for capital investment with a further €12.5m allocation for ongoing maintenance and running costs.
This year the allocation has risen to €69.5m, including an amount of €2m provided in delegated sanction to the Defence Forces for smaller scale projects. A further €13.5m is also provided for the Defence Forces delegated maintenance budget.
Defence Forces
Questions (166)
Sinéad Gibney
Question:166. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Defence her plans to improve the quality and collection of statistics relating to Defence Forces recruitment and retention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54105/26]
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Increasing recruitment and retention of personnel in the Defence Forces is a key priority for me as Minister for Defence. As a government, we are committed to putting the resources in place to achieve Level of Ambition 2 and a crucial element of this is personnel expansion. A range of measures have been undertaken to tackle recruitment and retention challenges in the Defence Forces over the last number of years. As a result, we have seen a stabilisation in the strength of the Permanent Defence Force in 2024 and an increase of almost 200 personnel in 2025.
The importance of effective and quality data in driving transformation in the Defence Forces is well recognised. A Digital Transformation Officer, at Colonel level, was appointed by the Defence Forces in October 2024. The planned Digital Transformation process, which is being led by the Digital Transformation Officer and their team, will ultimately deliver a comprehensive singular data repository of data in the Defence Forces, including recruitment and retention data, which will enable detailed and complex data access and analysis.
On recruitment and retention data specifically, a number of interim steps have been undertaken by the Defence Forces to increase available data.
As the deputy may be aware the Defence Forces have commenced the use of a new Applicant Tracking System, Rezoomo, which has a data analytics function and provides statistics through the various stages of the recruitment process.
A dedicated report, built directly around Rezoomo data, has been developed specifically for Defence Forces recruitment activities. This report provides comprehensive visibility of key recruitment metrics including; time to hire, candidate success rates, and rejections reasons. By leveraging the data now available, the Defence Forces can monitor recruitment performance, identify emerging trends and isolate areas for process improvement.
The Deputy may also be aware that a draft Strategic Workforce Plan prepared by the Defence Forces has recently been submitted to me for consideration. The aim of the plan is to provide a pathway to the achievement of a strength of 11,500, inclusive of civilian personnel, commensurate with Level of Ambition 2. The Plan highlights that improving the quality and availability of metrics is key to decision making across the Defence Forces and makes a number of recommendations in that regard.
I am pleased that there continues to be very strong interest in a career in the Defence Forces with a total of 16,510 applications received in 2025 and over 10,000 applications received to end May 2026.
The Military Authorities advise that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) stood at 7,823 personnel on the 31 May, the latest date for which this figure is available. Last year saw a modest, though significant, growth in the overall strength with a total of 790 inductions achieved- the highest in twenty years and the number of personnel who discharged was at its lowest level in more than five years.