The soldiers' group, PDFORRA, has called on the new Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea, to end the rule which requires private soldiers to step down after 12 years service.
Up to the mid-1990s a private soldier virtually had a job for life in the defence forces but in a move to reduce the age profile, and increase the level of fitness, the authorities introduced contracts for enlisted personnel in 1994.
These contracts were initially for five years, which following negotiations were extended to 12 years. Dozens of privates face dismissal in less than two years time.
PDFORRA general secretary Gerry Rooney said there is no justification for terminating the contracts of people who are appropriately skilled and physically fit.
Mr Rooney called on the Minister to extend the contracts of those concerned.
Earlier, the organisation criticised the military authorities for forcing members of the defence forces to serve overseas.
At its annual conference in Letterkenny in Co Donegal, it said that whenever possible volunteers should be chosen for UN missions.
PDFORRA also accused the authorities of trying to suppress allegations of bullying and harassment.
