Ministers to consider report on Defence Forces' pay

The Government has faced consistent criticism over the issue of pay in the ranks (Pic Defence Forces)

The Cabinet is today expected to consider a report by the Public Service Pay Commission into pay and recruitment in the Defence Forces.

Minister for Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe is due to bring a memo to Government that contains measures to improve the take home pay of soldiers and naval personnel.

It is likely that ministers will this evening sign-off on the proposals that form part of a €10 million package.

The increases would focus on allowances rather than core pay, returning these payments to what they were before the last economic crash.

There would be a rise of 10% in the military service allowance, which ranges from €42 to €123 per week.

The patrol duty allowance of €48 per day for naval personnel at sea would also be increased.

The Air Corps service commitment scheme, which can be worth upwards of €20,000 annually, would also return.

The Government has faced consistent criticism over the issue of pay in the Defence Forces.

The recommendations were set to be brought to Government following consultations between Mr Donohoe and the Minster of State at the Department of Defence Paul Kehoe.

If the measures are accepted the payments will be made immediately.

The package, which is set to be formally launched tomorrow, will also focus on health and education in the Defence Forces.