asked the Minister for Defence why a large number of FCA personnel, having completed the prescribed potential officers course more than 18 months ago, have not yet been commissioned despite the fact that their units' commissioned staff is grossly under strength.

Arrangements are at present being made for the appointment to be officers of 42 non-commissioned officers of An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil who have successfully completed a potential officers' course.

It has been brought to my notice that in a company where there should be three commissioned officers there is only one at the moment. A number of officers have done this course and are awaiting commissions and may I take it now that they will be commissioned?

In the near future.

Am I to take it that is the answer?

Yes.