asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that military personnel are performing duties as stokers at the Military College, Curragh Camp, County Kildare, a duty which was always carried out by civilian employees.

Military personnel have been performing stoking duties as a temporary measure pending the appointment of civilian stokers. The vacancies for civilian stokers will be filled shortly.

In view of the present unemployment situation is it not peculiar that military personnel are doing civilian work?

I agree with the Deputy.

That it is peculiar?

Yes.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary ensure that this practice is discontinued immediately?

A notice has been issued of the need for the prompt filling of all vacancies which require to be filled.

I would ask the Parliamentary Secretary to convey to the Minister that this matter is urgent and that he should ensure that his orders are carried out as soon as possible.

21.