Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 October 2025
229. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will confirm whether all reservists who were not paid in full in late 2024 have since been paid in full; the timeframe for outstanding payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52680/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll eligible RDF activities in 2024 were paid for, reflected in the fact that the original 2024 budget allocation for the RDF was increased by 36 per cent during the year. This additional spending reflected the higher than anticipated levels of activity and a welcome increased interest in the RDF during the year.
The original 2024 budget allocation for the RDF was proactively increased in Q4 2024 to meet evolving levels of RDF activity, with a further increase requested in the latter part of the year which was acceded to. The number of Reserve Training and Support Days (RTSDs) undertaken in 2024 totalled 28,762 days, an excess of 2,762 days over the original allocation of 26,000 days. It was confirmed that all amounts due by the 29 November 2024 – the payroll deadline for receipt of applications for payment in 2024 – would be paid within the 2024 calendar year. In summary, approved RTSD applications received by payroll on/before that date, in respect of duties completed by that date, were paid in 2024. This cut off is normal practice at year end.
A total of 23 reservists submitted RTSD applications on/before the 29 November 2024, which related to duties due to be undertaken post 29 November and these, with the exception of 2 reservists who were not due monies, due to previous overpayments, were paid in the next available payroll on 3 January 2025.
My officials and the Defence Forces Office of Reserve Affairs (ORA) are continuing to monitor RDF expenditure and an application to further increase the 2025 budget is currently being processed.
