asked the Minister for Defence if any naval service recruits were trained in 1979 in any locations other than the naval base at Haulbowline and, if so, (i) why it is necessary to train recruits outside the base; (ii) the number of recruit classes so trained with location and details; (iii) if training outside the base was a normal feature of Naval Services training of recruits in the past and (iv) if the practice is being continued in 1980.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Naval Service Recruits.
2.
A total of 68 naval recruits (6 classes) of the 239 who enlisted in the Naval Service in 1979 received their initial military training at Collins Barracks, Dublin and Custume Barracks, Athlone. A total of 34 naval recruits (one class) received their initial military training at Custume Barracks this year.
It has not been the normal practice to give initial military training to naval recruits in army posts but, as a large number of recruits were enlisted in the Naval Service in the last year, the Army authorities undertook the initial military training of some of them. The Naval Service carried out the sea training of all of these recruits.
All Naval recruits are now being given their full training at the naval base.
Is the training being carried out outside naval headquarters due to the fact that the accommodation and facilities available cannot meet training requirements?
There was a considerable of number of recruits. A total number of 239 naval recruits were enlisted during 1979 and the naval service encountered problems in providing for such a large intake as this at the naval base. There was also a shortage of instructors. However, I understand that all training will take place now at the Naval Base.
Is the Minister in a position to say when the naval base at Haulbowline will be able to deal with the demands made on it for training purposes?
I understand that they will be able to give full training and, in fact, that all naval recruits are now receiving full training at the Naval Base.
Question No. 3 has gone for written reply.