asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Private Michael Kearns, No. 406508, 6th Field Company, Corps of Engineers, Collins Barracks, Dublin, a member of Oglaigh na hÉireann since September, 1941, passed his trade test on the 25th January, 1944, but has not been paid grade pay of 2/- per day on the grounds that there is no vacancy in the establishment; and, further, that he is constantly employed on painting and decorating; and, if so, if he will direct that Private Kearns be now paid the grade pay, for which he passed his trade test, in view of the nature of the duties on which he is engaged.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Soldier's Grade Pay.
I am aware that No. 406508, Private Michael Kearns, 6th Field Company, Corps of Engineers, passed his trade test but has not been paid grade pay on the grounds that there is no vacancy in the establishment.
The relevant Defence Force regulations provide that additional pay shall not be issued to a soldier unless he is filling a vacancy in the establishment of his unit for a particular occupation; and, further, that additional pay shall not be issued to more than one man in respect of the same vacancy in an establishment. As no vacancy at present exists in the establishment of Private Kearns' unit for a painter, he is not entitled to receive additional pay as a painter. Private Kearns is, however, employed at his trade on a voluntary basis and is in receipt of additional pay as a helper at the rate of 6d. per day.
Where there is no vacancy on the establishment but there is a continuous demand for the services of a man at a particular trade, is there no provision for increasing the number on the establishment, where there is clear ground for it?
No.
It means, in effect, then, that a man can be required to perform duties for which he does not receive any additional pay. Has he any right to refuse?
Yes, it is purely voluntary.