asked the Minister for Defence why the period of annual camp training for the FCA personnel has been reduced from 14 to seven days.
38.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Annual Training.
37.
asked the Minister for Defence the estimated saving arising out of the decision to call the FCA for only a single week's training instead of the normal annual training.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 38 together.
The limitation of annual training in 1966 to seven days in the case of the FCA and An Slua Muirí was due to considerations of economy. The saving thereby effected is estimated at £200,000.
Does the Minister consider that one week's training will be any use?
Yes.
Is this economy going to upset the morale of the force? Surely the morale of this force is of vital importance to the country?
The morale is high in the force.
Mr. T.J. Fitzpatrick (Cavan):
Does the Minister not agree that a reduction of the annual gratuity of FCA men to the miserable sum of 40/- per week is an insult to the force and calculated to drive young men out of it?
That is just what they are doing.
Would the Minister say whether a big number of those called for annual training up to now were people who did not take part in the ordinary activities of the force during the year and would the Minister consider having those who do take part in the ordinary activities continued on two weeks annual training?
Over 50 per cent come up for training but I am not able to say what percentage are personnel who do not attend training parades regularly.
Surely the Minister should be able to get that from the records? Everybody is aware that this is brought about by people who turn up for an annual holiday and that those who have a genuine desire to be serving soldiers are being left outside.
Question No. 39 postponed.