asked the Minister for Defence if privates in the Defence Forces must pay £3 per week for food; and, if so, if he will consider the provision of free meals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Soldiers' Meals.
23.
Unmarried NCOs and privates are entitled, as part of their total remuneration, to free meals in addition to the unmarried rate of pay.
Married and widower soldiers are paid an inclusive rate of pay, which includes a cash element in respect of rations, out of which they provide their own food. When provided with meals by the State married and widower soldiers are charged 50p a day except when they are absent on temporary duty from their permanent stations where they normally live and are thus separated from their families.