asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that the civilian clothes given to men at the time of their discharge from the Army are similar to those worn by convicts; and, if so, if he will ensure that these men, who answered the call when the country was in danger, will be supplied with a respectable suit of clothes, shirt and shoes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Discharged Army Men's Clothes.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. Provision already exists in the regulations under which soldiers on discharge, with the exception of those discharged on compassionate grounds, or under age or by purchase, are issued with a complete outfit of civilian clothes or a cash allowance in lieu.
I have seen very many men discharged and the clothes they are wearing after serving the State are something you might see coming out of an institution. Are these clothes manufactured by a Jewish firm, or who supplies them? They are a disgrace to the State; it is disgraceful to give such clothes to these soldiers who have served the country so long.
The clothes are made from Irish materials by a reputable Irish firm. They may not have the same fashionable cut as the Deputy's suit, but they are useful suits for men leaving the Army. They are not intended to be just the sort of suits that will carry them down Grafton Street, but they are useful suits.
The Minister suggests that the suits are suitable for men who have served in the Army. I may tell him there is no lining in some of the coats, with the exception of in the pockets. I suggest that the suits resemble something one would see in institutions. They are similar to what used to be called in the old British time "Martin Henry's" and "Greybacks"—shoddy material.
They are quite suitable.