Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Nov 1997

Vol. 482 No. 4

Written Answers - Defence Forces Footwear.

Ivor Callely

Question:

79 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the total expenditure on shoes and boots for the Army, FCA and Navy over the past five years; the total number of shoes and boots purchased; the average issue to each member over a six month period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18316/97]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The total expenditure on shoes and boots for the Army, FCA and Naval Service over the period 1993-97 inclusive amounted to £3,377,000 (£3,160,000 — Army - FCA and £217,000 - Naval Service).

The total numbers of shoes and boots purchased over the same period are as follows:

(a) Boots No. 24B	66,550	Army and FCA
(b) Boots Operational	13,030	All PDF Members
(c) Shoes	19,450	Army
(d) Shoes No. 6	4,475	Naval Service
(e) Boots No. 3	1,700	Naval Service

Boots and shoes are generally expected to last over a period of one to three years depending on the type of boot and/or shoe and usage. Boots are usually replaced every 18 months within the Army and Naval Service and every three years within the FCA. Shoes are expected to last for two to three years.