asked the Minister for Defence if it is a fact that the grants paid to the national reserve of officers are the same in 1964 as they were in 1926, namely, Lieutenant £30, Captain £50 and Commandant £75; if so, if he considers that these payments are equitable or an enticement to officers to remain in the reserve; and if not, if he will arrange for substantial increases in the grants.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grants to Reserve of Officers.
53.
Particulars of the annual grants payable to officers of the Reserve of Officers, holding the ranks mentioned by the Deputy, in 1928, when this class of the Reserve was established, and in 1964, are as follows:—
|
1928 |
1964 |
|
|
£ |
£ |
|
|
Lieutenant |
50 |
30 |
|
50 |
||
|
(applicable to Air Corps pilots) |
||
|
Captain |
50 |
50 |
|
Commandant |
50 |
75 |
I should like to point out that the annual grant is only one item in the total remuneration payable to Reserve Officers each year. During periods of annual training, courses of instruction, etc. the rates of pay and of children's allowances issuable to officers of the Permanent Defence Force apply also to Reserve Officers. Uniform replenishment allowance at one-third of the rate applicable to officers of the Permanent Defence Force is also payable.
While I consider that the present amounts of the annual grants are not unreasonable having regard to the total remuneration for which Reserve Officers are eligible each year, I, nevertheless, have the question of increasing the grants under examination in conjunction with certain other matters relating to the Reserve. I cannot, however, at present say when a decision is likely to be reached.
Would the Minister endeavour to expedite a decision in the matter?
Yes.