Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 June 2025
59. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when the non-commissioned officer rank of lance corporal will be created for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, as it was a key recommendation of the Commission on the Defence Forces and is seen as a way to enable personnel to progress earlier in their careers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30437/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe creation of a new enlisted rank of Lance-Corporal, in the Army and Air Corps, with consideration to be given as to whether there is a need for an equivalent rank in the Naval Service, was recommended by the Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF recommendation #20, February 2022). As set out in the Detailed Implementation Plan for the Commission on the Defence Forces report, this recommendation has been identified as requiring further evaluation. I understand that the further evaluation is expected to be completed later this year.
There are currently very strong promotion opportunities in the Defence Forces across all ranks.
An illustration of the promotional advancements in 2024 is as follows: -
• There were a total of 552 promotions in the Permanent Defence Force, across all ranks.
• The total number of Enlisted Personnel promoted in 2024 stands at 364. (19 Females and 345 Male).
• The total number of Officers promoted in 2024 stands at 234. (24 Female - 210 Male)
• 19 Internal Permanent Defence Force promotion competitions took place across the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps.
The Deputy may also wish to note that personnel from the Enlisted Ranks successfully completed the 12th Potential Officer Course in March of this years (2025) resulting in the promotion of 21 Acting Lieutenants and 8 Captains.
In addition to promotion opportunities there is a wide range of development opportunities available to personnel. There are a number of Professional Development Courses available to both enlisted personnel and officers. These courses are designed to build specific competencies and, upon successful completion, may provide individuals with enhanced opportunities for promotion.
The Defence Forces actively encourages its members to pursue further education and development opportunities, offering support for academic advancement up to and including NFQ Level 10.
