Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 4 Dec 1991

Vol. 414 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Forces Courses.

Liam Kavanagh

Ceist:

10 Mr. Kavanagh asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline the plans to introduce a formal qualification or credits for courses completed at command training depot and military college level for officers of the second line reserve, in order that they may develop their military education to NCEA diploma in military study standards; if he will consider making the course available to second line reserve officers on a part-time basis either through command training depots or designated third level institutions in the East, West and Southern Commands and the military college, Curragh Camp.

Mr. V. Brady

At present there are no plans to introduce a formal NCEA recognised course of training for members of the Reserve Defence Force.

Mr. Ryan

I am unhappy with the Minister's reply because the extra qualifications and courses taken up by members of the FCÁ have not been taken on board. Sufficient recognition is not given to the management qualifications of these people and therefore the decision is detrimental.

Mr. V. Brady

The National Council for Education Awards agreed to award the NCEA diploma in military studies to cadets who successfully complete their cadet training in military college. There are certainly no plans to extend this course or to introduce a part-time course for members of the Reserve Defence Force. As the Deputy is probably aware, cadet training comprises 18 months of very intensive academic military tuition, and there is no comparable training for officers of the Reserve Defence Force. It would be very difficult to compare one with the other.