asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the widespread dissatisfaction among Army personnel at the present rate of overseas allowances which have remained unchanged for many years; and if he will take steps to have these allowances increased.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Overseas Allowances.
63.
The answer to both parts of the question is "No".
Is the Minister aware that other armies have increased their overseas allowances since they were originally introduced? In view of the fact that the cost of this is borne by the United Nations Organisation, why does the Minister refuse to increase the allowances?
I have not got any complaint whatsoever in relation to the allowances, and I am not aware of the fact that the allowances have been increased in respect of other armies. I have not got that information.
Is it not a fact that other armies have increased them since they were originally introduced?
I will have to inquire into that.
In our case we have remained out of step.
Would the reason for that be that the Irish Army personnel are being paid a lower rate and therefore the difference between what is received and the overseas allowance is greater? Would the answer be that the rates of the Army personnel should be put up?
I did not hear what the Deputy said in the final part of the question.
Would the Minister consider the best way would be to raise the Irish Army personnel rates to those being paid to members of other armies serving with them?
If there is a question of a differential between ours and the rates other armies are receiving, I will have that matter examined, but the fact is that I have not got any complaints. The allowances seem generous enough.