Defence Force exodus

The Defence Forces’ unhappiness with their lot has been public knowledge for some years but the news that 167 personnel have paid — one paid €10,000 — to be allowed early discharge paint that disquiet in altogether darker shades.

Low pay and antisocial conditions are cited as the primary reasons for this flight. Soldiers are paid less than gardaí and despite a recent increase, 84.12% of Defence Force members earn below the average public service wage.