Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
179. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if she will review and outline the process for joining the First Line Reserve of the Naval Service, in particular in relation to the regulation governing age limits for entry to the First Line Reserve and if these can be amended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27708/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy key priority is the modernisation of our Defence Forces, and revitalising our Reserve Defence Forces is a vital part of that transformation process.
In that context, the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) Regeneration Plan published in July 2024, contains 27 actions across four objectives, namely: Recruit & Retain; Resource; Train & Educate and Integrate & Deploy. 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.
A legislative amendment to increase the maximum retirement age for the FLR is currently in progress.
I am advised that the Process for joining the First Line Reserve is as follows:
Application to the First Line Reserve is outlined in DFR R1 which states that an officer must make an application in writing for such an appointment. This application “shall normally be made before the applicant ceases to be an officer of the Permanent Defence Force” and:
Be, on the critical date, not less than five years below the maximum age limit appropriate to officers of his description as prescribed in paragraph 8 of DFR R1.
Be medically classified.
Have a medical classification as set out in para 4 (2) c (i) (I) or (II) and (ii) of DFR R1.
Be recommended by the Chief of Staff as a suitable and qualified person to be an officer of the Reserve of Officers (First line).
Satisfy the Minister as to character.
I am advised that the individual who raised this query is not restricted by the age limit of 54 years of age and his application has progressed to the medical stage of the process.
