asked the Minister for Defence if he is considering increases in pay for Army personnel; and, if so, by what amount.

The 11th round increase has been paid to all ranks in the Army and any question of a further increase will fall to be considered in the light of developments affecting public service remuneration generally.

Surely the Minister is aware that what he refers to as the 11th Round was only half what was generally conceded in the 11th Round? Army personnel got a one year increase whereas other workers got an increase over two years and would the Minister consider that in common with those who did not get an increase covering two years, the Army rate would be considered now?

They have got nine per cent subject to a minimum of £1 for a married man and 16/- for a single man or woman. I do not know what point the Deputy is making.

I am sorry that the Minister is not au fait with these matters. The point is that increases granted under the 11th Round either were increases in two or three phases covering from £2 to £2 10s. or a single increase of £1 last year with a further £1 or 30s. this year. I am asking the Minister if he proposes to give the Army personnel the balance due soon.

The Deputy should have asked the question he wished to have answered.

I am sorry that the Minister does not understand labour relations.

I understand that when one wants an answer to a question the question should be so framed that the answer can be given. I have given the Deputy the answer to the question that he asked.

I am asking the Minister if he is considering an increase in pay for Army personnel and, if so, by what amount? Should I have put the question down in Gaelic?

I have told the Deputy the amount of the increase—nine per cent with a minimum of £1 per week for married men and 16s for single men or women effective from 1st June, 1968.

They are due £1 from 1st April, 1969 which they are not getting.