152. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Defence if she is aware of concerns regarding the implementation of supplemental military service arrangements which commence on 1 June 2026 (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42216/26]

I welcome the introduction of Supplemental Military Service (SMS) for the Reserve Defence Force, which will regularise RDF activities to support the Permanent Defence Force. The introduction of SMS for members of the RDF updates a previous administrative system to ensure consistency with the provisions of the Defence (Amendment) Act 2021. Membership of the RDF is voluntary and part time, in service to the State.

The introduction of SMS will assist with the modernisation of the Reserve Defence Force, to ensure that it can seamlessly train, operate and deploy with the Permanent Defence Force.

I am pleased that this initiative also addresses an issue of concern that had been raised with me when I met with the Reserve Defence Force Representative Association, earlier this year.

Members of the RDF can volunteer for SMS when there is a particular deficiency in skills or expertise in the PDF which can be addressed by the deployment of a member of the Reserve or where it is otherwise in the best interests of the Defence Forces. The Act provides that SMS activity will not exceed a prescribed number of days within a 12-month period and Regulation sets the prescribed number of days at 100.  The pro rata rate for the remainder of 2026 is 58 days. This limit is in place for all members of the Reserve who volunteer for SMS and will ensure equality, transparency and fairness in the allocation of support activity. I would again emphasise the voluntary nature and part time nature of participation in the RDF.

Recently, the Defence Forces distributed, to all RDF members, a Guidance Instruction on the administration requirements of SMS, which included application forms.  Last week, I approved a batch of 811 requests from members of the RDF to volunteer to undertake SMS in 2026, with further requests expected shortly.

Supplemental Military Service includes such military service both within or outside the State and will be remunerated. Members of the RDF deployed on Supplemental Military Service will also be entitled to the benefits of the Working Time Directive as well as appropriate allowances and subsistence.

This is a positive and transformational initiative that will codify the broad spectrum of activities that can be undertaken by the RDF and to ensure that the professional skills of members of the Reserve are fully utilised.