An EU directive which sets out statutory rights for employees in respect of daily breaks, weekly rest, maximum working times and annual leave, is to be implemented across the Defence Forces.
Ireland had originally excluded the Defence Forces when it transposed the Working Time Directive but it has since been determined through EU case law that exemptions from the directive may only apply to specific activities, as opposed to a sector in its entirety.
Due to their specific nature, some military activities will be exempt from the provisions of the Working Time Directive but other health and safety measures, including rest periods, have been introduced for those involved in such tasks.
"The implementation of the Working Time Directive has long been identified as an important retention measure for serving members and it is a significant further step in the transformation of the Defence Forces in line with my commitment to cultural change," said Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin.
The regulations enacting the directive were signed by Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment Peter Burke.
"My Department has worked closely with the Department of Defence in recent weeks and months to progress these measures, ensuring we are supporting members of our Defence Forces while at work, and I am glad to have now signed these important regulations," Mr Burke said.
The Chief of Staff Lt Gen Seán Clancy welcomed the development.
"This crucial step will benefit all members by addressing issues around work-life balance, setting clear limits on work hours and ensuring adequate rest periods for our personnel," he said.
The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO) described the move as a historic milestone on the path to making the Defence Forces an employer of choice.
"It is the culmination of almost a decade of advocacy by RACO and PDFORRA on behalf of our members, which involved complex negotiations, relentless engagement with many stakeholders, and the necessary taking of legal action," RACO said in a statement.
"The written confirmation from the Tánaiste of the delivery of measures negotiated and agreed between the Associations and the Department such as the provision of home reunion flights for personnel serving overseas, enhanced welfare provisions, and mandated rest periods for certain training courses is very welcome," the association added.
