Page 35 - Signal Winter 2019

can take a large degree of comfort in the fact that there are workable solutions to the current retention crisis in the Defence Forces. However, now is the time for putting the solutions into effect. The issues have already been clearly defined. Many times over in most cases. There is little or no need at this stage for working groups or surveys. Rather we must work in conjunction with our Departmental colleagues, sister association and external agencies to effect the required change. It is imperative that the remuneration and working conditions of all members of Óglaigh na hÉireann are addressed swiftly, so that we can continue to carry out the tasks we have been allotted by Government, in a safe and professional manner.
The meeting with An Taoiseach also struck me as a key moment in our representative history for another reason. I could see that the tide was turning for the better. Moving on from a place where the Department of Defence are seen as the entity that stands in the way of improving working conditions, to an ally that can assist in making the issues understood and worked through by Government. As it should be, thereby playing an integral role as our employer. That is an approach that will be essential during the next round of central pay talks, due to commence next year. Your leadership will be instrumental in that regard Minister to ensure that the Defence Forces is not once again undermined by that process.
On a similar note, RACO have made no secret of the fact that we have reservations about the application for affiliation to ICTU of our sister association. We have continually held that an independent pay review body is the preferred solution in our view. A standing body that understands, and takes account of, the unique nature of military service.
Going back to my opening remarks on the Public Service Pay Commission. It would be remiss of me not to take this opportunity to commend the efforts of Mr Kevin Duffy, as chair of the Public Service Pay Commission, and the remaining members of the Commission for their work and positive engagement throughout the process that led to the release of the report last May. It was unfortunate that the Commission’s hands were tied to a large degree, as they were directed not to look at core pay. There is no doubt that this was an opportunity lost. And sadly, the prospect of the proposed increases to allowances has not stemmed the outflow. Indeed, in July alone, after Government had released the findings of the report, a further 97 personnel exited the Forces.
But the Commission’s recommendations should rather be seen and taken as a starting point. I would suggest that there are further opportunities in the resultant Implementation Plan, prepared by Government, that can be used to good effect. However, the stated timelines must be adhered to if the plan is to be ultimately effective and RACO must be involved throughout as a key stakeholder. Our Members are pleased that our Chief of Staff and the Secretary General have put an Implementation Management Office in place. But decisions still have to be made and our members await the evidence of real and substantial outcomes.
Lastly, I would like to pay particular comment to our Chief of Staff, Vice-Admiral Mellett. Sir, I would like to take this opportunity to commend you in your efforts to hear the concerns of your troops and highlight those same issues to Minister Kehoe and Government over the last number of years. I also would like to acknowledge the fact that you have given unique access to your Office to those under your command, and have heard first hand
COS addressing the Conference
Minister Paul Kehoe addressing Conference
| RACO BDC 2019 |
Capt Owen Tully, DFTC Chair
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