asked the Minister for Defence if, with a view to attracting a high calibre of personnel into the Naval Service, any consideration has been given to improving conditions of pay and service in the navy; and, if not, why.

The calibre of the existing personnel of the Naval Service is quite satisfactory.

Is the Minister yet able to man the three vessels?

We have sufficient officers to operate the three ships. With the measures we are taking and with the enhanced image of the Naval Service due to the provision of the three minesweepers, we are quite confident that we will be able to recruit adequate and suitable personnel including executive officers.

When will these three vessels for which the Minister paid such an exorbitant price be at sea?

The vessels are at sea. They are operational.

Fully manned?

Adequately manned.

Would the Minister and the House not agree that it is about time everybody stopped knocking the Naval Service which is being revitalised and give them an opportunity to try to build up and to be as good as the Army? We have gone a little bit too far with this. Criticism before the new boats were bought was valid but I think at present an effort should be made to allow the Minister to build up the Naval Service.

It should never have been allowed to run down.

In view of the fact that the Naval Service is understaffed as regards officer material would the Minister consider improving conditions of pay and service in the service so as to increase the officer material?

We have the whole position in regard to Naval Service personnel under review and we are satisfied that the measures that are being taken at the moment and the improved image of the Naval Service will attract suitable and well qualified personnel.