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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Mar 1974

Vol. 271 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Compulsory Military Training.

103.

asked the Minister for Defence if he will introduce legislation to provide that compulsory military training will be required for a period of two months per year for boys in the age group 16-18 years and for one month in the age group 18-19 years; and if he will indicate the number who would be involved and the cost of such training.

Legislation on the lines indicated in the question is not contemplated. Particulars of the numbers in the age groups mentioned who would be involved are not available but according to Volume II of the Census of Population of Ireland, 1971, the total number of males aged 16, 17 and 18 on their last birthday was 83,436. On the basis of that figure, it is estimated that the annual cost of pay, rations and insurance would be of the order of £15 million. The financial implications of the additional accommodation, equipment, uniforms, and so on which would be required have not been assessed.

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