asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the recent increases in pay are considered satisfactory so far as junior officers are concerned; and what has been the reaction to same.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Pay Increases.
92.
I am satisfied that the pay adjustments recently announced for all ranks in the Defence Forces are reasonable.
While the increases granted at the lower points on the new pay scales of some officer ranks are not appreciable, it would be wrong to look on them as anything more than an attempt to simplify and rationalise the pay scales. The benefits will accrue in time as the officers move towards the maxima of the scales for their ranks.
I have no official information as to the reaction of junior officers to the new pay adjustments.
Is the Minister saying he has had no reaction from junior officers to an increase of £4 per annum?
No, I did not say that. I said I had no official reaction.
Could the Minister say what unofficial reaction he has had?
The rates generally are very well accepted.
Does the Minister say the rates have been very well accepted by junior officers?
This is only a part of the new structure. The incremental period has been cut by half and they are on automatic promotion as well.
Can the Minister tell us with whom he would normally consult in these matters to get reactions?
The decision was arrived at as a result of a very comprehensive review and it was a Government decision. I would not look for any information as to reactions.
Did the Minister get any reactions in Cork yesterday?
Excellent reactions.
Can the Minister say how it would be possible for him to get official or unofficial reactions from Army officers when in fact the only negotiations he had were with the Chief-of-Staff? Would he not accept that it is about time he set up, as exists in every other European country, an Army representative negotiating body?
That is a separate question.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.
In view of the misleading and totally incorrect reply given by the Minister for Finance to Question No. 47, I propose, with the permission of the Chair, to raise the matter on the Adjournment.
The Chair will communicate with the Deputy.