asked the Minister for Defence if he will state whether it is proposed to grant agricultural leave, as in previous years, to members of the Defence Forces who request same in order to work on bogs and farms.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Leave
In accordance with Defence Force regulations, agricultural leave will continue to be granted to men enlisted for the duration of the emergency and reservists (Classes "A" and "B" and Volunteer force) on permanent service who are required in their civilian capacity for the sowing or harvesting of crops. As, however, all soldiers in these categories are now being demobilised and will be discharged from the forces or transferred to the reserve of men—first line—in a short time, the necessity for such leave, on a large scale, is hardly likely to arise.
Agricultural leave is not granted to members of the permanent force.
In the event of any member of the Defence Forces applying for agricultural leave, will the Army authorities give the matter their consideration, in view of the Taoiseach's appeal for increased work on the land during the coming year with a view to increased food production?
Not for members of the permanent force; but for members of the emergency force, yes.