Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
117. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the issue of chaplains, their terms and conditions and the issue of being without representation despite working for and being paid by her Department. [33406/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish firstly to commend the invaluable contribution made by military chaplains to the Defence Forces.
My officials, as a priority, are currently preparing proposals around the appointment and status of Military Chaplains, which are being informed by a Workplace Relations Commission Ruling from 2023, and a subsequent Defence Forces Chaplaincy Review Report from last year. In addition, I have also asked officials to consider a mechanism to provide for the representation of Chaplains by a Military Representation.
The policy position, once approved, will require appropriate underpinning in primary legislation. I have asked officials therefore to seek advices from the Office of the Attorney General on legislative issues arising.
Meanwhile chaplains are free to join almost any other union or representative association, and as an interim measure, Officials have written to the Head Chaplain to confirm that chaplains may bring any matters of concern directly to my Department.
I wish to assure the Deputy that this body of work, while complex, is a priority for me.
