asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that there is a difference in pay between the men employed on the coast-watching service at Balbriggan and those employed on similar duties at Rush, and that this difference in pay exists in other coast-watching posts; and if he will state the reasons for such differences, and if he is prepared to consider the matter with a view to placing the men on all posts on the same scale.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coast-Watching Service at Balbriggan and Rush.
I assume that the Deputy refers to the daily allowance in lieu of rations issuable to members of the Coast Watching Service since the rates of pay are the same at all posts.
The daily allowance in lieu of rations issuable under existing Defence Force Regulations to members of the Coast Watching Service varies according as to whether they are married or single and also as to the number of unmarried men serving at a particular post.
It has now been decided, however, to issue a uniform daily allowance in lieu of rations to all members of this service, whether married or single, and the necessary regulations are being prepared.