asked the Minister for Justice if it is a fact that in promotion examinations in the Garda held early this year few members of the Garda with less than seven years service were considered; and, if so, what is the reason for practically excluding Gardaí with less than such service.

The answer is No. The Commissioner, Garda Síochána, has informed me that, of the total number of members considered for promotion to the rank of sergeant, about one-third had less than seven years' service.