Paul McGrath
Question:12 Mr. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the number of vacancies which exist at NCO level within the Defence Forces; if a 1946 regulation is cited for the delay in promotions; and if it is his intention to amend these regulations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Forces Vacancies.
The current strength of non-commissioned officers in the Permanent Defence Force is 5,052 as against an establishment figure of 5,837. As has been indicated in this House on a number of occasions over the past 12 months, the establishment figure is a notional one which has never been achieved. A review of the overall establishment figures for the Defence Forces is at present being undertaken by the military authorities with a view to arriving at a more realistic figure in line with actual requirements.
Would the Taoiseach agree that many NCOs who did courses and attended interviews are waiting for promotion? Some of these interviews were held as long ago as 18 months. Many of the NCOs are acting in the position they are hoping to be promoted to and this is leading to a problem with morale. Does the Taoiseach agree that something should be done about this matter immediately?
Something has been done. We moved positively on the question of bottlenecks in promotion at all levels in the Defence Force and that process will continue.
Is it the Taoiseach's intention to take Defence questions next week?
Clever.
Just give a straight answer.
The Taoiseach said he was happy with the procedure as it was. Would he not agree that the members of the Defence Forces are very unhappy with the situation?
I did not say that. I said we had moved very considerably on the whole issue right through the Defence Forces. Of course there is room for progress and that is part of the recommendations of the Gleeson Report.