andMr. Bruton asked the Minister for Defence if the new uniform for the FCA will involve both a new design and a new material; and when it will be available for use.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Uniform.
121.
The design of the FCA uniform has not been changed. Uniforms in a new material are in course of delivery and issues will commence in the late autumn.
Is it not a fact that when this matter was last raised here the Minister said a new design would be involved?
I have no information to that effect. Provision is being made now to have the new material available in the late autumn.
Would the Minister check the records?
I shall take the Deputy's word.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary tell me why a new design is not being considered in view of the fact that the present design has been there for a considerable time?
How long has it been there?
Since the LDF at the beginning of the war.
What is wrong with the present design?
If the Parliamentary Secretary consults members of An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil he will find out very quickly what is wrong with it.
I am in constant touch with An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil for which I have the highest respect but I have not heard very many complaints.
I served in that force for five years and the design of the uniform was a constant matter of complaint.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say what quantities of the old material are in stock or on order?
I have not the remotest idea. But if the Deputy puts down a question to that effect the information will be forthcoming.