asked the Minister for Defence if he will state, exclusive of chaplains, members of the Army Nursing Services and personnel of the Reserve undergoing courses or annual training, the actual number of (a) regular officers; (b) regular N.C.O's; (c) regular privates, and (d) cadets, serving in the Defence Forces, Permanent Force, on the 30th June, 1950.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Strength.
Major de Valera
The approximate numbers in the different categories were: (a) 1,070; (b) 2,420; (c) 4,464; (d) 94.
Major de Valera
asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the total effective strength of the Defence Forces, Permanent Force (exclusive of chaplains, cadets, members of the Army Nursing Services, and personnel of the Reserve undergoing courses or annual training) on the 30th June, 1950.
The approximate total effective strength of the Defence Forces, Permanent Force (exclusive of Chaplains, Cadets, members of the Army Nursing Service and personnel of the Reserve undergoing courses or annual training) on 30th June, 1950, was 7,954.
Major de Valera
Is the Minister aware that at Mullingar on 29th June the Taoiseach stated that for the present financial year the personnel of the Army is over 12,000 men? Is the Minister further aware that on the total figure now given by him of 7,954 there has been a decrease since 31st March when the corresponding figure was 8,113 inclusive of cadets?
The Minister is aware that the Taoiseach made such a statement. The Taoiseach, presumably, was referring to the established strength. The Minister is also aware that the ex-Taoiseach made a similar statement in Ennis three days before, again, presumably, referring to the established strength in 1948. Neither of the references applied to the current or actual strength of that date.
Major de Valera
Will the Minister agree that, having regard to the erroneous statement by him previously in regard to Army strengths, and having regard to the erroneous statement made by the Taoiseach, both governmental and ministerial statements tending to exaggerate the strength of the Defence Forces, the impression given to the public was very wrong, particularly when the strength, apparently, has, if anything, decreased since last March?
The only erroneous statements made, in my opinion, with the deliberate intention of sabotaging the Defence Forces, came from that side of the House.
Major de Valera
I desire to give formal notice, now, with your permission, Sir, of my intention to raise this matter on the Adjournment.
There is a prior matter.
Major de Valera
Well, for to-morrow or Tuesday.