Vol. 478 No. 3
154 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the total cost of naval uniforms in each of the years from 1994 to 1996; if he will give a breakdown of the contents of uniforms; the cost per item; and the feedback, if any, there has been of the comfort, quality and need of each item; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11069/97]
155 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the total moneys spent on Army uniforms in each of the years from 1994 to 1996; if he will give a breakdown in this regard; the cost per yard of cloth No. 59; the quality of cloth No. 59; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11067/97]
156 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the total cost of airforce uniforms for each of the years from 1994 to 1996; the feedback, if any, there has been on the quality and comfort of such uniforms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11068/97]
158 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the cost of uniforms issued by his Department or authorities under the aegis of his Department for each of the years from 1994 to 1996; if he will give a breakdown of such costs; the level, volume and value of stock in store; if he will give details of the quality of materials used; the feedback, if any, there has been on the comfort and benefit to the users of the uniforms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11097/97]
The details sought in regard to the cost of items of uniform for the Defence Forces are not readily available from my Department's records. The information is, however, being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Materials specified for use in the manufacture of items of uniform are of a high quality. The quality and type of all items of uniform procured for the Defence Forces are closely monitored by the military authorities to ensure suitability for use and comfort to the wearer. Any adjustments to quality, pattern or materials considered to be necessary in the light of usage and the experience of military personnel are introduced as required.
The cost of uniform and protective clothing issued by my Department for the use of local authority Civil Defence organisations for each of the three years in question was as follows: 1994, £135,288; 1995, £44,805; 1996, £111,533.
All items of uniform and protective clothing are issued to local authorities immediately after purchase; hence no stock is held in store. The quality of the materials used in the making up of these items is monitored by the technical services in the Government Supplies Agency.
