The details sought in regard to the cost of items of uniform for the Defence Forces are not readily available from my Department's records. The information is, however, being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Materials specified for use in the manufacture of items of uniform are of a high quality. The quality and type of all items of uniform procured for the Defence Forces are closely monitored by the military authorities to ensure suitability for use and comfort to the wearer. Any adjustments to quality, pattern or materials considered to be necessary in the light of usage and the experience of military personnel are introduced as required.
The cost of uniform and protective clothing issued by my Department for the use of local authority Civil Defence organisations for each of the three years in question was as follows: 1994, £135,288; 1995, £44,805; 1996, £111,533.
All items of uniform and protective clothing are issued to local authorities immediately after purchase; hence no stock is held in store. The quality of the materials used in the making up of these items is monitored by the technical services in the Government Supplies Agency.