Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 1

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Recruitment.

Willie Penrose

Question:

96 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a vacancy has existed for some time for the position of company quartermaster at the 16 Company, FCÁ, Tullamore, County Offaly, and that, as a result, this company is no longer recruiting; that this places young people from Tullamore at a serious disadvantage in furthering their interest in a career in the Defence Forces in view of the fact that they cannot obtain credit for FCÁ service; when the vacancy is likely to be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15349/97]

Minister for Defence (Mr. Andrews)

As part of the restructuring and reorganisation of the Defence Forces that is taking place at present a review of the Reserve Defence Force is due to commence shortly. The filling of any vacancies in units will be examined in the context of this reorganisation and restructuring recruitment to 16th Infantry Battalion (FCA) continuing as usual.