asked the Minister for Defence what success his drive for recruits has had in respect of (a) the Regular Army; (b) the Reserve; (c) the F.C.A.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Recruiting for Defence Forces.
(a) The recruiting campaign has not yet commenced but arrangements are being made for the initiation, in the near future, of a drive to secure recruits for the permanent force; (b) there is at present no direct enlistment in the Reserve of Men— First Line; (c) recruitment to An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil is normal.
Mr. O'Higgins
Will the Minister say why, in view of the serious international situation that was painted by the Minister as a Deputy some six months ago, recruiting has not yet commenced?
Because we are approaching this whole difficult subject in a sensible manner.
Is this evidence of the stunting of the Minister as a Deputy and of his colleague, Major de Valera, on the problem of defence?
Can the Minister assure the House that he will not again withdraw F.C.A. instructors?
We did not ask what we were going to do when we were fighting the British Empire and such questions should not be asked.
Mr. O'Higgins
You permitted me to ask a supplementary question of the Minister as to the reason why this recruiting drive did not commence. I do not think I have received a reply to that supplementary question.
Question No. 67.
Arising out of the last question answered by the Minister, I wish to give notice, in view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, that I propose to raise this matter on the Adjournment.