An Cosantóir

19 Wellbeing Strategy Group, in which he contributes to clinical research ethics and policies, along with the development of operational mental health resources for DF personnel. His civilian roles include being Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology in TCD and Consultant Clinical Psychologist at Blackrock Clinic, which are also rooted in his experience in the field of military psychology. In recent years, he has provided psychological assessment services for pilot selection to the Air Corps and post-deployment clinical mental health assessments for DF personnel returning from overseas' deployment. A former guest-editor of the Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps, he currently functions as a clinical researcher within NATO's Science and Technology Organisation. He also recently served as a trainer and advisor during the US military's Operation Bushmaster. RDFRA Dr McCauley sits on the National Executive (NE) of the Reserve Defence Forces Representative Association (RDFRA), which involves representing the interests of RDF members, especially during COVID19. "The NE team is hopeful that legislative changes will be made in the near future, assuring that - as in other jurisdictions when reservists are called up - their civilian employers will be required to keep their jobs open for them." He added that the Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney TD, is in favour of improving the status of reservists and hopes to make progress on it. Dr McCauley encourages all RDF personnel to consider becoming members of RDFRA, which continues to work on addressing the concerns of reservists in support of the DF's operational requirements. He has worked with NE colleagues in providing input for the Association's submission to the Commission on the DF. "RDFRA has proposed significant improvements to the RDF, both in terms of numbers and speciality structures" he noted, adding that one area seen in need of progress is the option of utilizing reservists in an official capacity outside the State. "This development will improve support to our PDF colleagues, in which we'll function as an operational force multiplier both in terms of specific skills sets and as a surge resource" he stated. RDF COVID RESPONSE Capt McCauley with US military colleagues during Operation Bushmaster Capt McCauley representing RDFRA at the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Defence in Leinster House, Dublin "This is an excellent time to join the RDF and there is always a need for new recruits" noted Dr McCauley. As for himself, he looks forward to many more years' service in the RDF. "I am committed to the Reserve, as it remains a crucially important resource for the Defence Forces and the country", he stated. Conclusion

• Cover