The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers (RACO) is calling for pay increases for Defence Forces cadets.
RACO, which is holding its Annual Delegate Conference in Trim, Co Meath, this week, said entry level cadet pay is far less than the minimum wage and 41% below newly enlisted colleagues.
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris will today address the RACO conference where he is expected to be pressed on the issue of low pay.
"Cadet pay remains the lowest in the Defence Forces, at just €493.45 per week, compared to €540.05 for a recruit," said RACO General Secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Conor King.
"Cadets remain on this pay for the entirety of their first year, while recruits move to an annual salary of €41,879.67 after just six months. Within that first year, a cadet earns 40.7% less than their enlisted counterpart, highlighting the significant early pay gap."
According to RACO, this disparity continues long after training because from the moment of enlistment, it takes an officer five years to catch up to an enlisted colleague in terms of career pay, despite undertaking longer training and assuming greater responsibilities.
The association said that while it welcomes the recent increases in enlisted pay, low cadet wages presents a serious barrier to recruitment.
"Should this not be addressed, then RACO will have no option but to recommend to future cadet applicants that they enlist as a recruit in the Defence Forces prior to commencing a cadetship," Lt Col King said.
RACO represents 1,225 serving officers of the Permanent Defence Forces, from 2nd Lieutenant to Colonel and equivalent Naval Service ranks.
Delegates will debate 26 motions over the next two days on issues such as pensions, overseas pay, and expedited citizenship for officers born outside of the state.
RACO said that the ongoing issue of inadequate staffing levels in operational units remains a pressing concern and that motions at this year's conference will highlight those challenges.
On the increasing geopolitical instability, President of RACO Lieutenant Colonel Martin Ryan said a well-resourced defence and national security system is critical.
"We need government to give urgent attention to the specialist skills required to meet emerging demands. This will ensure governance risks are managed effectively and that the welfare of members is protected," Lt Col Ryan said.
The association said it will also be calling on Minister Harris to address an issue in relation to Defence Forces Chaplains after they were told they could not receive representation from RACO as they "are not members of the Defence Forces".
RACO said the Chaplaincy Service has sought immediate clarity from the Department of Defence as to their status.
In Budget 2026, which was announced last week, a record €1.49 billion was allocated to Defence, an increase of €145 million, or 11%, compared to 2025.
