asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that there is grave discontent amongst officers of the Reserve of Officers on permanent service because of the increasing tendency to transfer such officers to the Reserve for personal and often petty reasons; whether he will say what steps he proposes taking to ensure to Reserve officers on permanent service protection against such treatment; and, further, whether he will take steps to ensure that such officers are protected against irregular punishments by directing that recommendations for transfer to the Reserve are investigated by the Council of Defence, and a full opportunity given to the officers concerned to defend themselves before the recommendation is given effect to.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transfers to Reserve of Officers.
I am not aware that there is grave discontent amongst officers of the Reserve of Officers on permanent service as suggested by the Deputy. Transfers to the Reserve are at all times governed by the best interests of the service and are made on recommendations approved by the higher military authorities and have to receive my concurrence. In the circumstances, the question of taking the steps suggested by the Deputy does not arise.