Warning of 'chronic understaffing' in Defence Forces

The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO) has warned that chronic understaffing in the Defence Forces must be addressed.

RACO is holding its Annual Delegate Conference in Carlow this week where a number of motions will be debated on issues such as pensions, working conditions, allowances, training and concerns around overseas deployments.

The two-day conference is being held at a time when violence is escalating in Lebanon, where many RACO members are currently serving with the United Nations.

One of the motions being tabled calls for enhanced incentives and supports for personnel deploying overseas, to help alleviate the strain on families left behind, and combat the increased cost of living.

"The situation has become so challenging that mandatory assignments, rather than voluntary deployments, are becoming the norm," said RACO General Secretary Lieutenant Colonel Conor King.

"This shift, coupled with the understaffing in operational units, has significantly increased the risk to those deployed, and to those left behind in these units," he said.

RACO is calling for the immediate implementation of agreed protection and welfare measures associated with the Working Time Directive, including family reunion flights for members deployed overseas, as well as mandatory time off in lieu associated with intensive courses, seagoing operations and overseas deployment training.

RACO is also calling on the Government to establish a dedicated Minister with responsibility for Defence.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence Micheál Martin will address the conference tomorrow.

Budget 2025, which was announced yesterday, included an allocation of €1.35 billion in Defence funding.

This is a €100 million increase on last year's figure and includes funding for the recruitment of 400 additional Defence Forces members.

"The record allocation of €1.35 billion in Budget 2025 demonstrates this government's commitment to defence and those who serve our State," Mr Martin said.

"This funding will facilitate ongoing investment in our defence capabilities along with allowing crucial progress in the modernisation of the Defence Forces," he added.