asked the Minister for Defence how many vacancies there are in the rank of lieutenant in the Army.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Officers.
41.
There are at present 181 vacancies for lieutenants in the Permanent Defence Force (excluding the Naval Service).
42.
asked the Minister for Defence the number of engineer officers recruited in the past three years.
I presume the Deputy's question refers to officers holding university degrees in engineering or equivalent professional qualifications. Two graduates in engineering were recruited and appointed to be officers in the last three years—one in the Corps of Engineers and one in the Ordnance Corps.
Are there vacancies for more than that number in the Corps?
There are vacancies.
Is it a fact that it is not possible to get engineer officers?
This problem is common to many organisations seeking engineers. There is difficulty in getting engineer officers.
43.
asked the Minister for Defence the number of officers who retired in the 12 months ended 31st January, 1971 in advance of normal retiring age.
In the period of 12 months ended on the 31st January, 1971 the number of officers who retired voluntarily in advance of the normal retiring ages for their ranks was 24. In addition three officers resigned.
Would the Minister agree that that number of resignations in that short period, coupled with the fact that there are 181 vacancies in the rank of lieutenant, indicates that the Army is no longer a career desired by young Irishmen? Would the Minister take steps to see that the Army can provide a career for people who are interested in such work?
I would not agree. The position indicates the buoyancy of the economy and the availability of good employment.
Is the Minister happy with the morale in the Army?
This might also indicate that money is worth buttons.