andBlaney asked the Minister for Justice if he will state whether members of the Garda Síochána have been promoted to the rank of sergeant without undergoing an examination, and, if so, whether such promotion was in accordance with regulations.

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The promotions were in accordance with the provisions of Article 3 of the Garda Síochána (Promotion) Regulations, 1929.

Will the Minister say what type of service merited such promotions and will he say also whether or not such promotions will be detrimental to the chances of those who have already passed the examination but have not yet been called to the rank of sergeant?

The commissioner acted in accordance with his powers and I can assure the Deputy that my predecessor did not use any influence with the commissioner when he decided to appoint such candidates last May.

What I wanted to get clear is whether, when such people are promoted, these promotions will interfere with the ordinary promotions through examinations of those who have already qualified but have not yet been given the rank?

It will not interfere with the men who have already passed.

So that these people will be sergeants without any work?

Those appointed last May, I understand, were appointed on merit and not on examination.

Would the Minister say what prompted the commissioner acting under the powers he has to promote these men? What was the reason? Was it because of long and faithful service?

The promotions were made in accordance with the provisions of Article 3 of the Regulations. The Minister has no power to interfere with them.

Is there a precedent for it at any time since we got self-government?

Why do you not ask Deputy Boland?

Ask Deputy Boland.

I am asking the Minister.

I submit that the Minister should be allowed to answer the question.

Would you also submit that Deputy Boland be allowed to answer?

Why are you trying to prevent the answer being given to us?

What are you covering up?

We are not trying to cover up Gerry Boland in any case. We would want too big a sheet to cover him.

You covered this up all right.

The Minister for Agriculture will need Guards to protect him when the grain growers get after him.

These men were appointed on merit last May.

On merit and ability?

Yes, last May.

You should raise it at a Party meeting.

He would get his block knocked off, if he did.

Question No. 32.

You are going to have——

I have called Question No. 32.