asked the Minister for Defence if the examination of the organisation and structure of the FCA has now been completed; and if he will agree to establish a scheme of fixed-period promotion to the rank of captain.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Organisation and Structure.
30.
The organisation and structure of An Fórasa Cosanta Áitiúil are under examination by the military authorities at present. Pending completion of this examination it would not be appropriate to comment on the possible outcome including the question of fixed-period promotion referred to by the Deputy.
When did the examination begin and when is it likely to be completed? Does the Minister agree that the suggestion to grant fixed-period promotion to the rank of captain is a laudable one, especially in view of the present lack of opportunity for promotion in the FCA?
This began as a result of a representation which the Deputy made to my predecessor some months ago. It is under consideration. There is, in fact, ample scope for promotion within the FCA but there are not enough suitable candidates offering themselves for promotion. I agree with Deputy Power's argument that there should be promotion but his suggestion may not represent the best possible solution.
Did I understand the Minister to say that while there are lots of opportunities for promotion to the rank of captain those offering are not of a calibre sufficient to be promoted to this rank?
The Deputy was told something like that in a letter from my predecessor some months ago and the matter is still under consideration. I do not want to go into detail about it but I think he and I are of the same mind on it.
I want to dissociate myself from any defamatory remarks made by the Minister with regard to the calibre of people in the FCA offering for promotion.
There is no question of defamatory remarks being made about the FCA. I believe in the Defence Forces and I believe the best type of people are joining. In this case, as was pointed out to the Deputy by my predecessor, the situation has not changed except that an ongoing examination is in progress and I hope to see many promotions within the FCA during the next 12 months.