asked the Minister for Defence whether sergeant pilots in the Air Corps have received the increase in pay which was granted to all non-commissioned officers and men on 1st September, 1946; and if not, the reasons for the non-payment of the increase to such personnel.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pay of Air Corps Sergeant Pilots.
It is the intention that the remuneration of sergeant pilots will be increased and that the increase will be payable retrospectively as from the 1st September, 1946. The rates of flying pay of all ranks engaged on flying duties are, however, under review and the extent of the increase to be granted to the sergeant pilots is one of the matters under consideration. Pending completion of the review, therefore, the rates which were in operation on the 31st August, 1946, continue to be paid.
Will the Minister say why they were not paid the increase as from the 1st September, 1946?
The answer is that a rather difficult and highly technical question had to be decided. It has not been decided yet, but we hope to have it decided at an early date.
Will the Minister make sure that the sergeant pilots will not lose?
They will not; I have mentioned that they will be paid retrospectively.