Vol. 493 No. 5
109 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence the reasons a person (details supplied) was not given promotion to sergeant; the circumstances whereby he was not notified of this fact through the correct channels; the possible means, if any, open to him to seek redress in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16591/98]
The individual in question was one of 14 candidates who competed recently by interview for promotion to sergeant for which there were four vacancies in the 2nd Infantry Battalion. The individual in question was not among the candidates recommended by the interview board to fill the available vacancies. The formal results of the competition were published on 26 June 1998 and on the same day the commanding officers of each of the commands from which there were applicants were informed of the results by post. The commanding officers have now formally advised all unsuccessful candidates of the outcome of the competition. If the individual considers that he has been wronged he may seek redress under section 114 of the Defence Act.
110 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Defence his views on the merits or otherwise in the case of a dismissal of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; the possibility of redress in view of the public concern expressed in relation to the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16592/98]
The individual in question was retired by the President on the advice of the Government with effect from 27 June 1969. The retirement was effected pursuant to section 47 (2) of the Defence Act, 1954 and sub-paragraph 18(1) (f) of the Defence Force Regulations A15 which provided that an officer may be retired "in the interests of the service". I have reviewed the papers in this case and I am satisfied that the matter was handled in the appropriate manner and that the decision was taken only after detailed consideration. Given that this is a matter involving military security on which a decision was made by the President, I am not in a position to discuss it further.
