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Soldiers Raise Concerns With New Government Plans To Increase Defence Spending

Tuesday, 12 July 2022 13:10

Morale among commissioned officers is reportedly low.

The Defence Minister says increasing military spending is necessary to respond to any threats that could arise in the future.

Plans before Cabinet would see Ireland increase its defence spending from €1.1 billion to €1.5 billion by 2028, along with hiring an additional 3,000 staff.

Representatives of the Defence Forces have welcomed the move, but add it's coming from 'a low base'.

Minister Simon Coveney says Ireland needs to follow with Europe in putting some focus into defence spending:

Independent Kildare-South TD and former Army Ranger Cathal Berry has agreed to oppose Sinn Féin's motion of no confidence in the government in the Dáil this evening, following the commitment from Minister Coveney.

He says the money will mostly go towards hiring staff:

Morale among commissioned officers of the Defence Forces is 'low', according to their representative body RACO.

It's welcoming the government's latest plans, but is unhappy there won't be any allowances for the time it will take for its members to undertake those duties.

RACO General Secretary, Athlone's Conor King says the increase to defence spending is very welcome, but there is very little for their members to be happy with:

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