asked the Minister for Defence if he has further considered the question of granting a gratuity for non-commissioned officers and men on completion of their Army service.
Ceisteanna—Questions (Resumed). - Gratuities for Army Personnel.
57.
I regret that I cannot undertake that gratuities will be payable on discharge to non-commissioned officers and privates in addition to married pensions.
As has been made clear on other occasions, only married officers are eligible for gratuities in addition to their retired pay. Single officers are not so eligible. While a married officer receives a gratuity, he is not eligible for a married pension. Married non-commissioned officers and privates discharged on pension are eligible for additional married pensions.