asked the Minister for Defence (1) if it his intention to increase the strength of the Regular Army; (2) if so, to what figure he proposes to increase it, and (3) if he will outline the method by which he proposes to do so.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Strength of Regular Army.
The reply to (1) is "Yes".
As to (2), the aim is to bring the strength of the Regular Army up to that provided in peace establishments.
The methods by which it is hoped to increase the strength are at present being given consideration and I feel sure that I can rely on the help of the Deputies of the House and others who may be in a position to assist in whatever efforts we undertake.
I did not hear the second part of the Minister's reply. Can he not state if he has any definite figure in mind as to what the strength of the Army should be?
Does the Deputy want me to give the strength at which we are aiming?
Peace establishments. The Deputy will see those in the Estimate.
Could the Minister not give the figure?
12,500.
When considering the plans for increasing the strength of the Army, will the Minister consider increasing the pay of the ordinary privates in the Army?
That is a separate question.
Would the Minister give an undertaking to absorb Deputy Cowan's army?