asked the Minister for Defence if he has seen a newspaper report (details supplied) about the presence of the Number 1 Army Band at the opening by the Minister for Education of a school extension in Dublin; if this is normal practice on such occasions; the cost to public funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Band.
21.
A military guard of honour attended upon the Minister for Education on the occasion in question following a request by the manager of the school. It is the normal practice to provide an Army band, when available, to render musical honours on occasions when a guard of honour attends upon a member of the Government. The only cost to public funds was in the provision of military transport and this amounted to £49.
Is the Minister saying that any school manager who requests the presence of a military band or guard of honour will get it for the presence of a Minister of State at a school function.
If the situation at the time is such that the military authorities find they can meet the request then it will be favourably considered. The request is not made very often. From my point of view I am happy to see military personnel before the public eye in the best light. It helps in the recruitment campaign which is a continuing thing and is very important. On an occasion of great ceremony or great importance, where there are some dignitaries and school children present, it adds to the occasion if it is possible to have a guard of honour available with musical renderings. It does not happen very often that there is a request and it does not happen very often that it is possible to meet the request; but on some occasions I would favour it and support it. Naturally, there would have to be a balance. I would not like to see it overdone.
I am sure school managers will be grateful for the generous spirit of the Minister's reply. Would he not agree that his colleague, the Minister for Education, is very well equipped to blow his own trumpet?
It is the Deputy who cares to be facetious.