asked the Minister for Defence when the last recruiting campaign for Army personnel took place; how much it cost; how many were recruited as a result; when the next campaign is planned for; whether any modifications from the previous scheme are envisaged; and what the estimated cost will be.

The last general recruiting campaign for An tArm took place from 20 Samhain, 1961 to 31 Márta, 1962. The contract for advertising in connection with the campaign was placed as a result of competitive tendering and it would be contrary to established practice to disclose the contract price. The number of recruits enlisted during the period of the campaign was 446. A further general recruiting campaign is not at present contemplated.

What about the estimated cost? Did the Minister say there would be no further recruiting campaign?

No further campaign of that kind. A decision will be taken soon as to whether we should continue the existing arrangement or return to the old one.