asked the Minister for Defence whether the present wage rates in the Defence Forces are inadequate in view of the fact that 46 soldiers had to seek family income supplement to provide for their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Pay.
143.
Limerick West): I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 43 on 12 April 1989. Personnel of the Defence Forces are eligible for family income supplement on the same basis as persons in all other employments. The total strength of the Permanent Defence Force is over 11,000 of which only a very small number of personnel, with large families — less than a half of one per cent — qualify for family income supplement.