Written Answers. - FCA Vacancies.
Michael Bell
Question:
138
Mr. Bell
asked the
Minister for Defence
in respect of FCA and Slua Muirí subunits, units and higher formations, the numbers which had no subunit commanders prior to 31 December 1994, and which were not filled on 20 January 1995; the numbers where staff officers were not filled using the same methodology; the subunits or appointments concerned; the reasons for such vacancies existing for such a lengthy period; the criteria to be fulfilled in making such appointments; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[1739/95]
Ten units of the FCÁ out of a total of 47 had vacancies for battery-company commanders or staff officers, in the rank of commandant, on both dates specified. The units involved are as follows:
|
Vacancies for Battery-Company Commanders
|
Vacancies for Staff Officers
|
|
8 Infantry Batallion
|
2 Field Medical Company
|
|
20 Infantry Battalion (2 posts)
|
3 Field Medical Company
|
|
25 Infantry Battalion
|
5 Field Medical Company
|
|
3 Field Artillery Regiment
|
5 Field Signal Company
|
|
6 Field Artillery Regiment
|
|
|
9 Field Artillery Regiment
|
|
The criteria governing the promotion of officers of the FCA to the rank of commandant are as follows:
1. a minimum of three years' service in the rank of captain and a minimum of 12 years' service as an officer of the FCA;
2. have undergone annual training in four of the preceding six years;
3. possess a genuine sense of dedication to the well being of the Force as illustrated by:
(a) attendance record at training sessions,
(b) involvement in on-duty and off-duty activity,
(c) interest in welfare of individual members,
(d) active interest in recruitment,
(e) ready acceptance of responsibility in administrative matters,
(f) active engagement in the preparation of training plans,
(g) high standard of discipline and conduct,
(h) example given to subordinates;
4. be recommended by the Unit OC, Brigade OC and by the general officer commanding the command concerned as suitable for and competent to hold senior rank.
The promotion of officers to fill the vacancies for battery-company commander is currently being considered and it is expected that a number of promotions will be effected in the near future. However, in the case of the staff officer appointments there are no suitably qualified officers available and the appointments cannot, therefore, be filled at this time.
All unit commander and staff officer appointments in An Slua Muirí are filled at present.
