asked the Minister for Defence if he intends to introduce a female corps into the armed forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

As I have already indicated, the Government are committed to the establishment of a Women's Service Corps as part of the Defence Forces.

The detailed work associated with implementing this commitment is nearing completion. This involves consideration of the legislation required and the structure of the Corps. I would hope to be in a position to introduce the legislation in the near future.

What similarity will exist between the duties of the new Corps and those of the male personnel? Has any work been done on that?

It might be better if the Deputy waited until the legislation is before the House. It is my intention to have it here as soon as possible. There are many questions one could ask but it is not fair to expect that they would be answered in advance of the legislation.

Presumably the Minister has some idea about the duties they will undertake?

The Deputy had better wait for the legislation.

17.

asked the Minister for Defence if it is intended to build a new barracks for the proposed women's corps.

Accommodation as necessary will be provided for the Women's Service Corps. The type and extent of new buildings to be erected are under consideration.

Where is it proposed to have them located?

I hope at a later stage to be able to give that type of information.

Does that mean that we are very far back in the planning for accommodation for the Women's Corps?

We are very advanced in the planning of it but the legislation comes first. I want the authority of the House before I discuss details.

Does that mean that no thought at all has been given to where such a corps might be?

I have said that planning is at a very advanced stage.

Is the Minister going by military advice in going ahead with the Women's Corps in the Army?

I have indicated to the House that I intend to come forward with legislation and it will be a decision of this House as to whether there will be a women's corps in the Army or not.

Is what the Minister is doing in line with the best military interests of the country? Have his military advisers advised against a Women's Corps?

If the Deputy opposes or if the Fine Gael Party oppose the establishment of a Women's Corps in the Army, let the Deputy say so.

Have the military advised against such a corps? Or does the Minister deny that he has been advised not to set up a Women's Corps?

There has been no such advice against the establishment of the corps. If the Deputy is against it, let him say it.

I am not against it.

Are you for it?

Has the Minister been advised not to go ahead with this?

Certainly not.

What have the military advisers told you?

Order.

I shall answer questions that are directed through the Chair.

18.

asked the Minister for Defence if the salaries and conditions for women recruited into the Army will be the same as those of male personnel.

As the liability for military service will be undifferentiated in the case of male and female members of the Defence Forces it is the intention that their rates of pay and related conditions of service will be the same.

Then the Minister is living up to the promise made before the election?

As always.

No, but in this case.