asked the Minister for Defence if he will take steps to provide for more opportunities in the Defence Forces for the commissioning of non-commissioned officers and men.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Commissioning of Non-Commissioned Officers.
69.
In each year's competition for appointments as Cadet a number of the vacancies are reserved for serving members of na Buan-Óglaigh. In addition, under a scheme initiated last year, 20 selected non-commissioned officers are at present undergoing a potential officers' course with a view to being appointed to commissioned rank. It would not be feasible, at present, to provide more opportunities than those outlined for non-commissioned officers and men to be appointed to commissioned rank.
Is it a fact that a man cannot be promoted, unless he has a knowledge of Irish?
Irish is one of the subjects of which the members of the Defence Forces are expected to acquire a knowledge.
One of the three languages he has.
Therefore, if he has not got Irish, he cannot become a commissioned officer?
I do not know whether that is correct. There are members serving who have not got a competent knowledge of Irish.
There are no young men today who can become commissioned?
I am afraid the Deputy is not absolutely correct.
I think the Deputy is correct because I had some men from the ranks visiting me recently.