asked the Minister for Defence if he will extend the annual FCA training camps in 1986; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Training Camps.
4.
I regret that it is not possible at present to restore the two weeks annual training period for FCA personnel. The reduction in the period to seven days continues to be necessary as part of the Government's programme for achieving reductions in the level of public expenditure.
The arrangements for the payment of the full amount of the gratuity to members who undergo annual training will continue in 1986.
Will the Minister accept that the period for FCA training has been reduced to 50 per cent and that this leads to frustration within the commitment of the FCA units? Will he consider extending it or creating any extra activities for the FCA during 1986 to make up for this deficiency?
The Deputy may take it from me that as soon as circumstances permit I will wish to see the 14-day period for training purposes restored. However, at the moment circumstances do not permit that and the position in 1986 would seem to indicate that the restricted period will continue. However, I reiterate that the payments will not change. The people participating will be given full credit for the full period when they are eligible for payment. I accept that personnel participating would prefer to have a 14-day training period. However, I point out that the seven day period can be of great benefit and it is a question of how efficiently the seven day programme is ordered. Experience over the past few years would suggest to me that the seven day period is working very well and that benefits have accrued to the participating personnel in relation to weapon training and so on. It depends really on the efficiency with which the course is organised.
Will the Minister agree that with so many youth unemployed it is a great opportunity to involve them in FCA training and that it is a pity that there is not an additional effort to recruit them to give them that training necessary for young people?
I accept the principle that training of that nature is beneficial to anybody, unemployed or employed, but I do not wish to be seen to be connecting military service with the unemployment problem. I do not think that is the thing to do. While I would like to see an expanded FCA force, restrictions are such that at present we cannot contemplate expanding to any substantial extent.