asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the effective strength of the F.C.A. at the most recent date available and at the corresponding dates for the years 1951 and 1952, respectively.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - F.C.A. Effective Strength.
The most recent date for which the figure is available is 31st January and the effective strength of the F.C.A. on that date in the years 1951, 1952 and 1953 was as follows:—
|
1951 |
22,570 |
|
1952 |
15,587 |
|
1953 |
15,632 |
Can the Minister explain to the House what was the cause of the serious falling off in the effective strength of the F.C.A. during that period?
Between the period 1951 and 1953? It was mainly due to a removal of the non-effectives for failure to report for training.
Would the Minister give any information to the House as to whether it is intended to carry out a big recruiting drive for the F.C.A. in order to make good the losses he told us of to-day, most of which can be traced to emigration?
Oh!