Vol. 565 No. 3
124 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the category of PRSI deduction taken from payment to FCA-Slua Muirí for military service or training; the total amount deducted in each of the years 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10925/03]
The pay of members of the FCA and an tSlua Muirí for periods of full-time training, etc. not exceeding 21 consecutive days is not liable to social insurance contributions as such. However, where weekly pay exceeds a specified threshold – currently €356 a week – the health contribution of 2% is payable and is deducted from pay as PRSI Class K. Where weekly pay does not exceed the threshold, there is no health contribution liability and this is recorded as PRSI Class M.
The total amounts deducted in each of the years 1999 to 2002 are: 1999, €3,413; 2000 –€85,894; 2001 –€71,417; and 2002 –€100,559.
125 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence if there are any teaching courses for potential swimming coaches arranged or planned for the swimming pool at the Curragh given that a number of local swimming clubs are anxious to have such qualified coaches as part of their set up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10926/03]
A swimming assistants course is scheduled to take place from 26-30 May next for the training of 12 students. This course is for military personnel and will be conducted at the Defence Forces Physical Education School, Defence Forces Training Centre. I understand that the pool is currently being made available to a number of local schools. The question of extending the use of this facility is kept under review in the light of available staff allocations.
