(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Defence if a person (details supplied) in County Limerick who was formerly a seaman with the Irish Naval Service can be readmitted to the service.
989.
Written Answers. - Naval Service.
988.
(Limerick East) asked the Minister for Defence if there is a recruitment embargo in operation for admission to the Irish Naval Service; if there is, the ranks it applies to; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 988 and 989 together.
The Estimate for Defence for the financial year 1982 provides for an average strength of non-commissioned personnel (not including cadets) of 13,600. As the actual strength had exceeded this figure in December, 1981 recruitment was suspended. The question of a resumption of recruitment is being kept under review in the light of current strenghts and commitments. In the meantime the application for enlistment from the former seaman of the Naval Service referred to in the Deputy's question is being processed and he will be informed of the outcome by the military authorities, when recruitment resumes.