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Working-time rules extended to Defence Forces

An EU directive on working time has come into effect for the Defence Forces, after the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment signed regulations on the issue.

The department said that members of the Defence Forces would now enjoy the protections of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, which sets out statutory rights for employees on daily breaks, weekly rest, maximum working time over a given period, and annual leave.

The extension of the 1997 act comes after Minister Peter Burke signed the European Communities (Organisation of Working Time) (Defence Forces) Regulations 2025.

‘More attractive option’

Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces Lieutenant General Seán Clancy described the development as marking “a pivotal moment” in continuing efforts to improve working conditions in the forces.

“By aligning with contemporary workplace standards, we're not only improving the quality of life for our current members, but also making the Defence Forces a more attractive career option,” he stated.

Welcoming the move, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin said that the implementation of the directive had long been identified as an important retention measure for serving members.

Exempt activities

He described it as “a significant further step in the transformation of the Defence Forces”.

Due to their specific nature, some military activities will be exempt from the provisions of the Working Time Directive.

The Government said, however, that the Tánaiste had now implemented “appropriate health-and-safety protections”, including prescribed compensatory rest periods, for those involved in such tasks.