asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware that in recent years many additions have been made to the plain clothes staff and to other special positions in the Garda Síochána from junior members of the force who have no record of service, while members with excellent records and very long service are still on beat duty with no apparent hope of promotion, and whether he will state what remedial steps he proposes to take in the matter; further, if he will furnish the number of such positions filled by Gardaí with (a) over six and under twelve years' service; (b) over three and under six years' service, and (c) over one and under three years' service.

Under the Garda Síochána Acts and Regulations, this is a matter primarily for the Commissioner. I shall look into it, but I should like to make it clear that suitability for the work rather than length of service must be the primary consideration in selecting men for detective and other special duties in the Garda.

The figures asked for by the Deputy are not readily available. When they have been compiled, I shall communicate them to him.