Urgent: Army Cadets Paid Below Minimum Wage, RACO Condemns

UPDATE: Today, October 14, 2025, reports reveal that army cadets in Ireland are being paid below the legal minimum wage, drawing urgent attention at the ongoing RACO conference in County Meath. This alarming issue, which affects recruitment efforts, comes as the Commissioned Officers Association seeks to highlight the financial struggles cadets face.

Cadets currently receive only €493 per week, placing them below the threshold for minimum wage. This payment model is raising serious concerns about the sustainability of military recruitment, as many cadets find themselves unable to make ends meet. RACO’s General Secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Conor King, is set to confront Tánaiste and Defence Minister Simon Harris about these pressing issues later today.

“We need to make our voices heard,” King stated ahead of the meeting. “The current pay structure is a significant barrier to attracting new recruits and retaining those already in service.”

The conference aims to draw attention to the financial hardships faced by military personnel and advocates for a review of cadet wages. With recruitment numbers dwindling, officials are urging immediate action to rectify this situation.

This situation is not only a financial concern but also impacts the morale of those serving in the military. As the country faces rising costs of living, the funding of military positions must be reassessed to ensure that those serving the nation are adequately compensated.

What’s Next: As RACO continues its discussions today, all eyes will be on Minister Simon Harris to see how the government will respond to these alarming revelations. With military recruitment at stake, the outcome of this conference could shape the future of the Irish Defence Forces.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as it unfolds, and share your thoughts on social media to raise awareness about this critical issue affecting our armed forces.