An Cosantóir

An Cosantóir November 2016 www.dfmagazine.ie 4 | E arlier this year, I was deeply privileged by the trust which An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny TD placed in me by delegating full responsibility for Defence, a trust which I am committed to upholding for the betterment of each and every member of the De- fence Forces. From the outset, I have engaged extensively with members of the Defence Forces, through visits to Military Barracks, ceremonial attendances and during overseas visits. On each occasion I have been struck by stories of your experiences, which have been hum- bling and demonstrative of your ongoing dedication to the State. A key element of Ireland's contribution to peace and security is your commitment to international peace support missions under a UN mandate. As you know we are currently contributing just short of 500 Defence Forces personnel to eleven different missions comprising Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Mediterranean. We will shortly be enhancing our contribution to UNIFIL when Ireland takes over command of the Bat- talion from Finland at which time an additional Com- pany of some 150 personnel will be deployed. The ongoing deployment of Irish Naval vessels to the Mediterranean assisting Italian Authorities remains an important part of Ireland's response to the migrant crisis. Your participation has resulted in the saving of over 13,500 men, women and children, demonstrating the value of your work. These missions continue to ensure that the Irish Defence Forces' remain at the forefront of interna- tional peacekeeping but that success relies in no small part on your training, education and upholding of the values of Óglaigh na hÉireann. You will be aware that the findings of the most recent Climate Survey have been published and as with all such surveys there are positives and negatives within. The willingness to undertake a survey such as this demonstrates the maturity of the Irish Defence Forces and a readiness to address the needs of the organisation. For it to be truly impactful there must be an effective response, this will involve all levels of management as well as representative organisations. My hope is that in the coming months that response will become evident to you and result in a more posi- tive outlook into the future. For my part, I am acutely aware that issues persist around pay, allowances and terms and conditions of employment. My Department is continuing to engage with Representative Associations to ensure you are fully and fairly recompensed in the same manner as members of all other Associations who have signed up to the Lansdowne Road Agreement. I am equally con- scious of the effects of the re-organisation and barrack consolida- tion. I believe these structures are delivering a more effective, energet- ic and sustainable Defence Forces but be assured that work is ongoing by your military colleagues to mitigate the consequences to the greatest extent possible. I am pleased to say that Budget 2017 includes an increased allocation to Defence for investment in equipment and infrastructure to assist you in deliver- ing on your roles. Plans are also in place to continue phased General Service recruitment to reach the established strength figure. We have significantly increased recruitment this year and the necessary funding has been provided to continue to do so in 2017. I remain optimistic that with your progressive and welcoming attitude, coupled with the forthcoming publication of a new equality policy document, we will increase the level of female participation in our Force. The greatest asset which the Defence Forces pos- sesses is you - the servicemen and women of Óglaigh na hÉireann. I am determined that the Permanent Defence Forces remains an attractive career choice and one which continues to offer opportunities for every- one to reach their career potential. This year, in particular, has been memorable in the history of the State and the role of the Defence Forces has been exemplary. I want to express not only my gratitude, but that of the Government, for your contribution in honouring our forebears and lending dignity and respect to all the commemorative ceremonies this year. The solemnity that you provide at State commemo- rations has once again demonstrated the profession- alism and the high standards which each of you apply to taskings. I am pleased that those serving in this important year will be acknowledged by Government with the presentation of a commemorative medal. I hope to be able to meet with as many of you as possible during the presentation of the 1916 medal. Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D. Minister with responsibility for Defence To the members of Óglaigh na hEireann

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