asked the Minister for Defence if he will make arrangements with CIE so that FCA members wearing uniforms will be allowed free travel on bus services when travelling to and from duty.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - FCA Travel.
3.
An investigation of this matter some time ago indicated that the operation of such a scheme would not be feasible.
Members of the FCA are eligible for gratuities as a measure of reimbursement on account of losses, expenses and disabilities incurred by them consequent on their obligations as such. The matter raised by the Deputy was one of a number of points borne in mind in a review of the rates of gratuity carried out in 1971 as a result of which these rates were substantially increased.
I should add that Defence Force regulations provide for the issue of free travelling warrants to members of the FCA for the purpose of attending and returning from a course of training or instruction, an overnight camp, field day, test mobilisation or other official duty excluding church, funeral, ceremonial or training parades.