Defence (Amendment) Bill 2024

Public bill · Government · Presented

Major changes would modernise Defence Forces rules and create a new independent oversight body to monitor human resources and advise the Minister on dignity and equality issues. It would also make it easier to update pay information, clarify limits on political activity while in uniform, put controlled-drug testing on a clearer legal footing, broaden who can act as prosecutors in courts-martial, protect the name “Óglaigh na hÉireann” from misuse, and let representative associations seek consent to work with ICTU. It would also tighten who can be appointed as Ombudsman for the Defence Forces.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to amend the Defence Act 1954; to provide for the establishment of a body to be known as Comhlacht Formhaoirsithe Seachtrach Óglaigh na hÉireann and to provide for its functions; to amend the National Archives Act 1986; to amend the Defence (Amendment) Act 1990; to amend the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004; and to provide for related matters.

Last updated 30 August 2024