Tánaiste Simon Harris Announces Service Commitment Scheme for Air Corps Air Traffic Control Personnel
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From: Department of Defence
- Published on: 11 June 2025
- Last updated on: 11 June 2025
The Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Simon Harris TD, today (10 June) announced the immediate extension of the existing service commitment scheme for Air Corps pilots to air traffic control (ATC) personnel.
Speaking after today’s Government meeting, the Tánaiste said:
“I’m pleased that the Government is today taking this important step, which is designed to stabilise the air traffic control service as we work towards having it restored on a 24/7 basis.
“The security of the State is dependent on a 24-hour air traffic control service being operated by the appropriate number of highly trained personnel.
“While this immediate measure is a short-term solution aimed at stabilising service provision, it is essential that long-term options are also delivered, to ensure the viability of the service into the future.
The Tánaiste added:
“The challenges around air traffic control not unique to the Irish Air Corps.
“Rather, it reflects a worldwide shortage of personnel in the sector and a high demand both nationally and internationally for trained air traffic controllers.
“My Department and Military Management will continue to work together to put in place the necessary reforms to ensure there is a constant pipeline of people recruited and retained within our Air Corps Service.”
The Tánaiste expressed his appreciation to the Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers TD, for his assistance in having the pilots’ service commitment scheme extended to air traffic control personnel in the Air Corps.
ENDS