2026-02-17

Ruairí Ó Murchú question

186. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Defence whether there are plans to examine or revise the Army Pensions Acts to ensure fair treatment of families who have lost loved ones who are members of the Defence Forces; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12379/26]

Ruairí Ó Murchú (recorded as: Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú)

Will the Minister indicate whether there are plans - because there should be plans - to revise the Army Pensions Act and ensure fair treatment for families? There is a very particular issue that I have dealt with before. I know there is interaction between the man's family and the Department. I will not get into the specifics of that but in the long term we need to update that legislation to ensure we do right by the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Pádraig O'Sullivan (recorded as: An Cathaoirleach Gníomhach (Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan))

The Minister may give a response. That is all we have time for.

Helen McEntee (recorded as: Deputy Helen McEntee)

Like the Deputy, I will not get into specific details. I do not think it would be appropriate. I want to ensure we have legislation that ensures every member of the Defence Forces and their families are treated equally when it comes to pensions, particularly where a tragic incident has occurred. It is something I am engaging on and open to engaging on but I will not get into the specifics.