asked the Minister for Defence whether he intends further to expand and develop the First Line Reserve of the Defence Forces and, in particular, whether he will make provision for the further development of the Reserve of Officers (First Line) having regard to the need for trained First Line Reserve officers of the younger age categories.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - First Line Reserve.
Major de Valera
It is not intended further to expand and develop the Reserve of Officers—First Line or the Reserve of Men—First Line.
Major de Valera
Is the Minister aware—I take it that he is—that there is no normal flow to the reserve of commissioned personnel; secondly, that the reserves of officers which are available, First Line, are all from the last emergency and are ten years older now, approximately, than when they were commissioned, and is it not desirable that some scheme should be put into effect to supply that deficiency particularly as the years go by?
I am aware of the fact that the General Staff made proposals, some years ago, for the creation of another type of First Line Reserve. Those proposals were not sanctioned by the Government at that time. I agree with the decision taken by the Government of that time.
Major de Valera
Is the Minister correct in saying that any decision was taken? Is it not correct to say that a point was not reached of having a decision taken before the Government left office?
If there is clarification wanted on that point, I will communicate with the Deputy.
If the Minister could break down some of the ill-will that was created amongst the officers who were demobilised he could increase his reserves by 200 at least in the morning.
Is the Minister aware that very active steps to create a deficiency in the reserve of officers were taken by the last Government by dismissing them and throwing them out?
I have enough sins on my own shoulders without being asked to answer for my predecessors.
Is the Deputy referring to himself?
No. I have comrades over there.