Vol. 480 No. 8
34 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if it is his intention to treat the Air Corps as a separate autonomous entity for the purpose of promotion, competition and career development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15138/97]
The systems and general criteria governing promotion are matters which come with the scope of representation as defined under the Defence (Amendment) Act, 1990 and regulations made thereunder. A comprehensive promotion system is under discussion with RACO at present under the conciliation and arbitration scheme for the permanent Defence Forces. The terms of the scheme, which are agreed with the association, provide that discussions which take place under it are confidential to the parties involved. The Deputy will appreciate, therefore, that it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on this matter other than to indicate that criteria for the promotion and career development of Air Corps officers are included in the general issues under discussion.
