Defence Forces Mandatory Retirement Age Increases

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin today announced publication of the legislation to an increase in the mandatory retirement age for Defence Forces personnel from 60 to 62.

In March, the Tánaiste increased the mandatory retirement age to 60 for all Defence Forces ranks with a retirement age under 60.

At the time, he indicated that legislation would soon be enacted to allow for a further increase in the mandatory retirement age to 62.

Government approved the additional increase in the retirement age this week, which will take effect on enactment of the relevant legislation.

Welcoming the publication of the legislation to increase in the mandatory retirement age to 62, the Tánaiste said:

“This important measure will enable the Defence Forces to retain some of its most highly trained and experienced personnel as we simultaneously look to recruit new people into an exciting and rewarding career.

This is part of an ongoing investment in our Defence Forces, which has seen private health care rolled out to all members as well as increases in allowances and significant investment in infrastructure.”

The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Sean Clancy, added:

“I welcome the progress being made to further increase mandatory retirement ages for all members of the Defence Forces from 60 to 62. This initiative will act as an important retention measure, providing security of tenure for our serving members and support the transformation of our Defence Forces.”

Ends