Written Answers Nos. 215-234
215. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide a breakdown of the funding allocated to the climate action fund; a breakdown of the amount of the funding was drawn down; and a breakdown of how the fund was allocated, in each of the years 2020 to 2025, by year, in tabular form. [31693/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Climate Action Fund (CAF) does not receive an annual Voted allocation, but rather receives income from various sources including the National Oil Reserve Agency (NORA) Levy and from Government flight emissions offsets. Additional income can be transferred into the CAF but must follow the requirements set out in the National Oil Reserves Agency (Amendment) and Provision of Central Treasury Services Act 2020. Funds remaining in the Energy Efficiency National Fund and Ireland Energy Efficiency Investment PLC were transferred into the Climate Action Fund in 2021 and 2022 respectively. In 2021, a transfer from the my Department's Vote was made to the CAF in respect of payments made by the CAF to the Bord na Móna Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme (EDRRS).
Incomes (in €'000) to the fund are broken down in the table below.
|
|
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
2025* |
|
NORA Levy |
|
124,000 |
92,000 |
80,000 |
100,000 |
|
|
Energy Efficiency National Fund |
|
20,260 |
|
|
|
|
|
Government flight emissions offsets |
|
75 |
1 |
95 |
353 |
523 |
|
Vote Income in respect of Bord na Mona Project |
|
7,637 |
|
|
|
|
|
Ireland Energy Efficiency Investment plc |
|
|
1,212 |
|
|
|
|
Total |
0 |
151,972 |
93,213 |
80,095 |
100,353 |
523 |
Funds drawn down from the Climate Action Fund (in €'000) are broken down in the table below.
|
|
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
2024** |
2025* |
|
First Call Projects |
|
1,773 |
2,257 |
3,026 |
4,674 |
|
|
Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications transfer |
|
|
109 |
|
|
|
|
Bord na Móna EDRRS |
|
7,637 |
12,707 |
18,093 |
16,864 |
2,432 |
|
Community Climate Action Programme |
|
|
2,317 |
1,248 |
8,584 |
2,899 |
|
EU Life Programme Co-Financing |
|
|
|
|
1,165 |
|
|
Second Funding Round |
|
|
|
|
10,254 |
1,290 |
|
SEAI Funding |
|
|
|
|
59,571 |
132 |
|
Total |
0 |
9,410 |
17,390 |
22,367 |
101,112 |
6,753 |
Projects included in the Climate Action Fund First Call include a mix of infrastructure projects in the heat, transport, and energy sectors. The Community Climate Action Programme funds hundreds of community-based environmental projects. The Second Funding Round includes the Schools Photovoltaic Programme delivered by the Department of Education, Sustainable Transport projects delivered by the Department of Transport, and the Dublin District Heating Scheme delivered by Dublin City Council.
Allocations (in €'000) from the Climate Action Fund are as follows:
|
First Call Projects |
56,517 |
|
Bord na Mona EDRRS |
108,000 |
|
Community Climate Action Programme |
63,020 |
|
EU Life Programme Co-Financing |
1,713 |
|
Second Funding Round |
190,434 |
|
SEAI Funding |
111,718 |
|
Total |
531,402 |
*2025 Income and Expenditure figures are to date and will continue to increase until the end of year.
**2024 Expenditure includes €1,359,999 unspent funds returned by the SEAI for which my Department is awaiting approval from DPENDR to return to the CAF. This would give net expenditure in 2024 of €99,753,134.
216. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there are deployments being planned in anticipation of the removal of the triple lock, for example, with EU Battlegroups or other international forces without UN mandate; the scope of those deployments; who they are in conjunction with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31775/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are no deployments currently being planned in anticipation of the legislative amendments proposed under the Defence Amendment Bill.
Where any deployments are proposed, in the assessment of any request to participate in an overseas peacekeeping mission, among the main considerations are its compliance with Irish law and our foreign policy. Other elements include consent of the host nation, trust in partners in the operation and that the operation operates in accordance with international law and consistent with the UN Charter, as well as resources and capacity in the Defence Forces.
In evaluating proposals to join an operation consideration of the legal framework, rules of engagement, the concept of operations will also form the basis of deliberations.
With respect to EU military missions, they operate in accordance with Article 21 of the Treaty of the European Union. This requires that the Union’s action shall be guided by the principles of democracy, the rule of law, the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, respect for human dignity, the principles of equality and solidarity, and respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
Specifically concerning the EU Battlegroup, Defence Forces participation supports the interoperability of our Defence Forces with other militaries which is fundamental to our peace operations. Our current deployment to UNIFIL is a case in point, where Defence Forces personnel operate, as part of UNIFIL’s IRISHPOLBATT, in tandem with personnel from Malta, Poland and Hungary.
Furthermore, participation in EU Battlegroups enhances our capacity to influence the ongoing development and evolution of the rapid response capacity of the EU, in particular, the role Battlegroups can play in reinforcing and acting as a strategic reserve for UN operations. It is therefore a concept very much welcomed by the UN.
Participation in a Battlegroup has no effect on our traditional policy of military neutrality and our commitment to a Battlegroup does not involve any commitment to common or mutual defence.
The current Government approval in place with regard to participation in the German-led EU Battlegroup 2025 relates to the training and standby phase. In the event of any deployment of the Battlegroup, approval would have to be sought in line with the current legislation underpinning Defence Forces overseas deployments.
217. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence his Department's understanding of the scope and limitations of "strengthening international security" as justification for deployment of members of the Defence Forces overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31774/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is committed to playing a positive and constructive role in the maintenance of international peace and security, as evidenced by the long standing participation of our Defence Forces in peace operations. In the context of deploying members of the Defence Forces overseas to peace operations, Ireland’s aim in “strengthening international security” intends to reflect our commitment to supporting global peace and security. However, I recognise that there must be a considered justification for the deployment of our Defence Forces overseas which should encompass the legal, political and strategic perspectives arising from participation.
In this context, the scope of ‘strengthening international security’ deliberations would include assessing the aim and objectives of the operation, the tasks of the operation, and the expected outcome of the operation in creating or restoring conditions to enable the successful transition of the country or region to a more sustainable peaceful and secure environment. The scope of the operation could extend to the prevention of instability within a state or regional instability, the protection of civilians and supporting states to build a sustainable peace. Within those deliberations reassurance would be required that the proposals are underpinned by international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
As part of an international force, whether authorised by the UN or the EU or some other International organisation this Government accepts there must be a legitimate basis for the peace operation and must be established in the interest of international peace and security. Additionally, it is the case that deployments are not just about stopping violence or stopping warring factions, they will often contribute to the protection of human rights, the facilitation of humanitarian access, and the support of post-conflict recovery efforts.
I recognise that it is important to ensure that there are principles that will apply and limitations which will include that the mission or operation will be mandated, consistent with the principles of international law and the UN Charter, consistent with the principles of state sovereignty, and subject to parliamentary oversight. Deployment must serve the national interest and be proportionate to the threat or need and that the mission be bound by rules of engagement that reflect the nature of the mission.
In bringing forward the Defence Amendment Bill, this Government remains committed to ensuring that while strengthening international security is a vital and legitimate objective that may justify overseas deployment of our defence forces, such action must always be framed by international legal mandates, clear mission objectives, operational constraints, and a commitment to accountability. Our defence forces personnel serve not only in defence of our nation, but in service to international peace since 1958. We will continue to uphold those values in every deployment undertaken.
218. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total estimated cost to the Exchequer associated with the recent renaming and rebranding of his Department including but not limited to cost categories (details supplied); the breakdown of the incurred or projected costs; and if a cost-benefit analysis or any assessment of public value was carried out prior to approving these changes. [31362/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe name of my Department has remained unchanged.
219. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he is aware that a person (details supplied) has been refused a disability pension even though they developed psychosis after taking the drug larium while serving in Chad in 2009; and if he will request his Departmental officials to review this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31393/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Army Pensions Acts 1923-1980 a disability pension or gratuity may, following retirement, be granted to a former member of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) for permanent disablement due to a wound or injury attributable to military service (whether at home or abroad) or to a disease attributable to, or aggravated by, overseas service with a United Nations Force.
The criteria for awarding a disability pension or gratuity are based on;
(a) whether the applicant is suffering from a permanent disablement due to wound/injury which is attributable to his military service at home or abroad, or to a disease attributable to or aggravated by service with a United Nations Force abroad,
and
(b) the percentage degree of disablement from which the applicant is suffering.
The award of a disability pension or gratuity depends on the findings of the Army Pensions Board, the independent statutory body appointed to adjudicate on applications. The rate of disability pension depends on the degree of disablement as assessed by that Board.
The Army Pensions Board is an independent statutory body consisting of a chairman and two ordinary members (both doctors). The Chairman and one doctor are civilians and the other member is a serving Army doctor. The Board’s principal function is to investigate applications for pensions, allowances and gratuities under the Acts and to report to the Minister thereon. The Board determines the question of attributability to military service in each case; assesses the degree of disability; and reports its findings to the Department, which acts on the Board’s findings including the grant or refusal of appropriate benefits.
The person in question was examined by the Army Pensions Board in January 2024 and, based on their findings, no award was made to him.
The findings of the Army Pensions Board in regard to ‘attributability’ are “final and conclusive and binding on all persons and tribunals whatsoever” (Section 47 of the Army Pensions Act, 1937). However, there is provision for review of awards or refusals subject to certain conditions, for example if additional relevant information or evidence has subsequently become available.
Therefore, as things stand, there is no basis to review the decision in this case.
220. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on his Department’s progress on publishing its new Statement of Strategy. [31401/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of the Public Service Management Act, 1997, the Secretary General is required to submit a new Strategy Statement, for Ministerial approval, within six months of the appointment of a new Minister. The current Strategy Statement was formally approved in October 2023 and covers the period 2023 to 2026. The new Strategy Statement for the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, covering the period 2025-2028, is currently being prepared by my Department to be presented to the Minister for Defence.
The Defence Policy Review, Strategic Framework, Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces and the Independent Review Group report set the overall context and longer-term strategic framework within which the new Strategy Statement will sit. The new Strategy Statement will also be informed by the Programme for Government. The overall Defence policy framework is flexible and responsive given the dynamic nature of the security environment and enables the Department of Defence and Defence Forces to be adaptive to changing circumstances.
221. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report the number of fishery protection patrols undertaken by the Air Corps in 2022, 2023 and 2024. [31402/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information sought by the Deputy is set out below :
|
Year |
Number of patrols |
|
2022 |
97 |
|
2023 |
54 |
|
2024 |
112 |
222. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to confirm if a critical review of the RDF regeneration and development plan is scheduled at any point, to assess the plan’s effectiveness and implementation; and if any actions listed therein require review. [31403/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra226. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the status of the progress of his Department in increasing the future Reserve Defence Forces establishment strength as per a Commission on the Defence Forces Report. [31701/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra227. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the initiatives currently being implemented by his Department to enable the Reserve Defence Forces to deliver enhanced military capabilities when required to support the Permanent Defence Forces. [31702/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 222, 226 and 227 together.
The Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) recommended an increase in the establishment of the Army Reserve to 3,900, an increase of the Naval Service Reserve establishment to a minimum of 400 personnel, and the establishment of an Air Force Reserve of a minimum of 200 personnel . These recommendations are being considered in the context the wider transformation of the Defence Forces and the development of the Air Corps and Naval Service.
One of the priorities of the Defence Forces Office of Reserve Affairs (ORA) was the development of the Reserve Defence Forces (RDF) Regeneration and Development Plan, which was published in July 2024. This Plan has 27 actions that are designed to fully enable the RDF to deliver enhanced military capabilities by driving forward recruitment and retention; resourcing; training and education; as well as integration and deployment. Each of the 27 actions contribute to the ultimate goal of developing a Reserve Force that can seamlessly train, operate and deploy on a voluntary basis with the Permanent Defence Force, both nationally and overseas.
The the Regeneration and Development Plan is kept under constant review by ORA who monitor the progress of all actions and conduct a regular risk assessments ensure the intended progress is maintained.
One of the 4 operational objectives of this Plan is maintaining a robust and dynamic induction process with the aim of achieving an effective strength of 80% by 2028. To that end, the Defence Forces have prioritised RDF recruitment, and there have been positive gains in this respect with 268 members being inducted in 2024, an increase in excess of 300% over the 65 members inducted in 2023.
223. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to provide a schedule of the amount expended by his Department, and bodies under his aegis, on external training, simulations and advice in advance relating to appearances as witnesses at Oireachtas committees, from 2021 to date in 2025; if the supplier of services will also be provided, with a brief outline of services provided, indicating for which Oireachtas committee the services were utilised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31491/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
|
Year |
Supplier |
|
Amount |
Description |
|
|
2024 |
DHR Communications |
|
€2,585 |
Ongoing Committee appearance preparation sessions |
|
|
2024 |
Carr Communications |
€880 |
|
Witness skills development virtual classroom (civil service-wide) |
|
|
2023 |
DHR Communications |
€2,189 |
|
Committee appearance preparation |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
224. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there is consideration underway to reduce the hours of operation of military flight operations due to shortages of qualified air traffic controllers; if so, to set out the nature of the reduction, the impact these changes will have on emergency patient transfers from Casement Aerodrome, and separately the impact this will have on the operation of the emergency aeromedical service (Air Corps 112); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31506/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraInitial indications from the military authorities were received in my Department in early May on the likelihood of a reduction in services, as a result of expected losses in personnel to a private airport provider. All stakeholders availing of services from Baldonnel have been appraised of the situation, and in relation to particular important services such as Garda & EAS and medical patient transfers.EAS services will continue to operate from Athlone. In relation to inter-hospital transfers, I am advised that the majority of such are conducted by a private company chartered by the Department of Health with the Air Corp providing assistance only on as available basis.
225. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the milestones that have been reached by the 11 actions within the RDF Regeneration and Development Plan that are directly linked to the Commission on the Defence Forces Work Packages. [31700/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt has not been possible to provide a response within the timeframe available. I shall provide the information to the Deputy once a response is compiled.
|
|
RDFRDP ACTION |
CODF Recommendation |
Milestone Summary |
|
1 |
RDF Recruitment Strategy. Strategy to implement multiple induction streams for continuous recruitment into the RDF. |
78 |
Best practice recruitment across comparable global Defence Organisations and Irish public sector completed. Scope and timeline of sustained RDF Recruitment Plan designed |
|
2 |
Enabling of RDF Multi Induction Streams. Regulatory provision be made for the induction of personnel via several mechanisms in addition to general service recruitment. |
77 |
Assessment of comparable lateral entry mechanisms completed. Assessment of direct entry RDF recruitment mechanisms completed. Suitability for direct entry recruitment conducted for Service & Corps. |
|
7 |
RDF Diversity Strategy. A strategy to ensure the RDF is a positive working environment that reflects contemporary Irish society. |
74 |
Assessment of social diversity completed |
|
16 |
Monthly reporting of RDF activity. RDF activity is recorded and reported monthly. Data used to assess performance and determine operational readiness levels. |
70(ii) |
Process and policies for annual audit by ORA designed and process commenced. |
|
17 |
Establish RDF Management Offices in Brigades and Formations. Develop Courses of Action (COA) for the provision of a staff function that will oversee the implementation of the RDFRDP within the Brigades and Formations. These staff will support the day-to-day functioning of RDF Units. |
70(i) |
Purpose and responsibilities for ORA developed. Terms of reference and approach to RDF alignment with services developed. Key resources to ORA on boarded. |
|
19 |
RDF Domestic Deployment. Review of the application of the SFC. Initiatives developed to enable operational deployment on a routine basis. |
65 |
Work is ongoing |
|
21 |
RDF Transformation – Army Reserve. The Army Reserve (AR) force structure to be reviewed and transformed to support the wider transformation of the Army. |
69 |
Work is ongoing. The Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) recommended an increase in the establishment of the Army Reserve to 3,900, a recommendation that is being considered in the context the wider transformation of the Defence Forces and the development of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service. |
|
22 |
RDF Transformation – Naval Service Reserve. The establishment of the Naval Service Reserve (NSR) to be increased to a minimum establishment of 400 personnel. Disposition and organisation to be considered. |
68(ii) |
Work is ongoing. This recommendation is being considered in the context the wider transformation of the Defence Forces and the development of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service. |
|
23 |
Reserve Transformation - Air Corps Reserve Establishment. An Air Corps Reserve with an establishment for a minimum of 200 personnel be developed. |
68(i) |
Work is ongoing. This recommendation is being considered in the context the wider transformation of the Defence Forces and the development of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service. |
|
24 |
FLR Induction Re-established. Former and retiring members of the PDF be invited to apply to the FLR. Mechanism for the assignment of personnel of the FLR to parent units. |
73(ii) |
Assessment of existing FLR process conducted. Fast track process for transitioning PDF personnel into the FLR developed. Processes for seamless transition of PDF to be expedited. Communications to ex-PDF as to FLR induction process |
|
|
RDFRDP ACTION |
CODF Recommendation |
Milestone Summary |
|
26 |
Reserve A/CHOD, Service A/Chiefs and Senior Enlisted Leaders. Reserve A/CHOD, Service A/ Chiefs and Senior Enlisted Leaders Appointed. |
67 |
This CoDF recommendation, that the CHOD be supported by a Reserve Assistant Chief of Defence and that each Service Chief should be supported by a Reserve Assistant Chief of Service, is being considered in the context of CoDF recommendations 2, 3, 4, and 5 in respect of High Level Command and Control Work Packages. As such, the timelines for this project have been revised in tandem with revised timelines for those Work Packages. |
|
|
|
|
|
228. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the number of reserve training and support days completed in 2024; and the number of such days envisaged for 2025. [31703/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt has not been possible to provide a response within the timeframe available. I shall provide the information to the Deputy once a response is compiled.
229. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the work undertaken by his Department in reviewing the framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence. [31704/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Defence, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.
The Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government and its report was published on the 9th of February 2022. There were 69 main recommendations and with sub recommendations there were 130 recommendations in total. The Commission undertook a significant body of work, encompassing wide-ranging terms of reference. It recommended significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covered high-level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
The Commission on the Defence Forces also made significant recommendations around command and control of the Defence Forces including command being delegated from the Minister to the head of the Military to be titled Chief of Defence (CHOD). Currently, military command is delegated from the Minister for Defence (on behalf of the Government) to five separate high ranking military Officers commanding Army Brigade units, the Naval Service and Air Corps (all Brigadier General rank).
The Commission in their report stated "The Commission understands that these proposals, and in particular the creation of a CHOD, will impact significantly on current governance structures, and recognises therefore, that the future governance and oversight framework of the Minister and the Department of Defence will need to be redesigned to provide effective assurance and accountability. This area is beyond the Terms of Reference of the Commission and is not therefore further developed in this report."
Work is progressing on these command and control changes and the governance and oversight arrangements including the framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence. A second Memorandum for Government in relation to high level command and control was approved last year (July) to prepare the necessary legislation on Command and Control (C2). This work is significant, complex and sensitive. It involves a fundamental review of the current regulatory framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence. This work is on-going with the intention to have heads of bill presented to the Government in the near future.
Transformation efforts of the magnitude recommended by the Commission take time and can only be successful if they are built on solid foundations. I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place, coupled with progress to date, will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
230. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the work of his Department in identifying key governance reforms required to modernise the Defence Forces to bring high-level structures in line with international comparators. [31705/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission on the Defence Forces recommended in its 2022 report significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
The Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces sets out an ambitious programme of work to move to 'Level of Ambition 2' (LOA 2) by 2028 and the significant and fundamental change for the Defence Forces that will be delivered across the Commission's recommendations approved by Government.
There are a number of Government approved Commission recommendations contained in the report in relation to high level command and control and structures. Work has been ongoing on these Command and Control changes including the governance and oversight arrangements. A second Memorandum for Government in relation to high level command and control was approved in July 2024 to prepare the necessary legislation on Command and Control (C2). This work is significant, complex and sensitive involving a fundamental review of the current regulatory framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence. This work is on-going with the intention to have heads of bill presented to the Government in near future. This work will also encompass the redesignation of the Air Corps and the Naval Service as the Air Force and the Navy.
The Commission in their report stated "The Commission understands that these proposals, and in particular the creation of a CHOD, will impact significantly on current governance structures, and recognises therefore, that the future governance and oversight framework of the Minister and the Department of Defence will need to be redesigned to provide effective assurance and accountability. This area is beyond the Terms of Reference of the Commission and is not therefore further developed in this report."
The legislation currently under consideration is looking at these governance structures and how they can be enhanced in the context of command being delegated to the head of the Defence Forces and the overall transformation of the Defence Forces.
I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place, coupled with progress to date, will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
231. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on any stakeholder engagement that has or will take place towards the goal of modernising the Defence Forces governance in line with international best practice. [31706/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister, I am deeply committed to the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern fit for purpose organisation to defend the State and meet the challenges of today and the future.
The Commission on the Defence Forces recommended in its 2022 report significant changes for the Defence Forces and Defence provision in Ireland. It covers high level Defence Forces structures, defence capabilities, organisation, culture and human resources, the Reserve Defence Force and funding.
The Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces sets out an ambitious programme of work to move to 'Level of Ambition 2' (LOA 2) by 2028 and the significant and fundamental change for the Defence Forces that will be delivered across the Commission's recommendations approved by Government.
Much progress has been achieved since the Report on the Commission of the Defence Forces was published in 2022, with 43 recommendations completed to date and many others near completion. Government noted that, in light of the Commission’s report, there is an urgent need for HR and cultural transformation in the Defence Forces and this has been prioritised.
There are a number of Government approved Commission recommendations contained in the report in relation to high level command and control and structures which impact on governance. Work has been ongoing on these Command and Control changes including the governance and oversight arrangements. A second Memorandum for Government in relation to high level command and control was approved in July 2024 to prepare the necessary legislation on Command and Control (C2). This work is significant, complex and sensitive involving a fundamental review of the current regulatory framework governing the relationship between the Minister for Defence, the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence. This work is on-going with the intention to have heads of bill presented to the Government in the near future.
The Commission in their report stated "The Commission understands that these proposals, and in particular the creation of a CHOD, will impact significantly on current governance structures, and recognises therefore, that the future governance and oversight framework of the Minister and the Department of Defence will need to be redesigned to provide effective assurance and accountability. This area is beyond the Terms of Reference of the Commission and is not therefore further developed in this report."
The legislation currently under consideration is looking at these governance structures and how they can be enhanced in the context of command being delegated to the head of the Defence Forces and the overall transformation of the Defence Forces.
My Department has looked at other countries defence governance and this has helped inform their deliberations. Each country's governance structure is unique but there are insights to be gained from such analysis.
There will be engagement with relevant stakeholders including the Oireachtas, the Representative Associations and the External Oversight Body. The legislative process for the forthcoming changes on Command and Control include the pre legislative scrutiny of draft heads of Bill by the Oireachtas Committee on Defence and National Security. This will cover elements of Governance with work continuing on the modernising of Defence Forces Governance as part of the transformation of the Defence Forces as set out in the Strategic Framework.
A great deal of work still needs to be done and it will need concerted effort by all involved.
I have confidence that the structures that have been put in place, coupled with progress to date, will ensure the successful delivery of the transformation effort.
232. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of Ministerial management board meetings he has attended since his appointment. [31707/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile the Planning and Development Act 2024 (Act of 2024) was enacted in October 2024, it is in the process of being commenced. The provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended (Act of 2000), and associated Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (Regulations of 2001) remain in force until the relevant sections of the Act of 2024 are commenced and the corresponding sections of the Act of 2000 are repealed
A review of the current Exempted Development Regulations is ongoing and engagement with Government Bodies is due to be completed in the coming weeks. Following this, a wider public consultation on exempted development regulations will be undertaken at the end of this month. Members of the public, State bodies and other concerned parties will be able to make submissions in writing as part of the consultation process.
The Government cannot pre-empt the outcome of any consultation and therefore no decision has been made in respect of any revisions to current exempted development provisions. This includes exemptions for larger unattached structures and modular housing in back gardens. Any update to Exempted Development Regulations will require positive resolutions by both Houses of the Oireachtas before it can be signed into law.
233. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to report on the number of meetings of the Defence Forces board; and the most senior female member of the Defence Forces has attended in 2025, and in 2024, as is provided for. [31708/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Defence Forces Board (DFB) is comprised of the following members:
• Chief of Staff (COS)
• Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) Operations
• Deputy Chief of Staff (DCoS) Support
• Assistant Chief of Staff (ACoS)
• Head of Strategic HR (HoSHR)
• Head of Transformation (HoT)
• Gender Advisor (GENAD)
In line with a recommendation from the 2022 Report from the Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) Report, a direct entry competition was held, with the appointment of a female to the rank of Colonel as the Senior Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Gender Advisor (GENAD) in the Defence Forces in September 2024. This Officer attends the DF Board meetings when feasible for her to do so.
Please see table outlining the information requested by the Deputy for 2024 and 2025:
|
Year |
Total DFB Meetings |
Total attended by Senior Female Officer/ GENAD |
|
2024 |
44 |
32 |
|
2025 (to 31st May) |
18 |
15 |
234. Deputy Maeve O'Connell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he has met with the senior leadership forum within his Department since his appointment. [31709/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince I took office, I have met with Senior Leadership. I am in regular contact with the Secretary General, the Chief of Staff, members of the Management Board, and Defence Forces Senior Leadership team and will meet them all periodically throughout my term in office.
