asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the particulars of any reductions which have recently taken place in the pay conditions of N.C.Os. and men in the Defence Forces, in respect of (1) grade pay; (2) other allowances; (3) payments other than grade pay or other allowances; and if he will state the number of (a) N.C.Os. and (b) men, with (1) six months' service, (2) more than six months and less than one year; (3) one year and less than two years; (4) two years and less than three years; (5) three years and less than five years; (6) five years and more service, who have suffered by these reductions, distinguishing between (a) grade pay, (b) allowances, and (c) payments other than grade pay and allowances; and if he will indicate the number of N.C.Os. and men included in each class who were attached to the Local Defence Force, and if he will state the reason for such reductions, the date of each order referring thereto, and the date of its application.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Reductions in Army Pay.
The information required by the Deputy is being compiled in so far as possible and will be furnished to him in the near future.
What is the necessity, at the present time, to reduce the amount of allowances or grade pay given to N.C.Os. and men, in view of the fact that the cost of living has risen so much and that it is so hard for many of them to keep their families going?
Mr. Boland
I cannot say that. I did not know that was going to arise. The Deputy had better ask the Minister for Defence.