asked the Minister for Defence (a) if he will authorise the reopening of the Kinsale rifle range to facilitate the 11th Infantry Battalion for training purposes; and (b) if the range cannot be opened, the provision he has made for alternative arrangements to facilitate the battalion.

The question of reopening Kinsale rifle range is at present under consideration.

129.

asked the Minister for Defence (a) the number of man-days allocated to the 11th Infantry Battalion; and (b) the number allocated to each company; and if he is satisfied that the 11th Infantry Battalion is getting its rightful share of man-days in comparison with other similar battalions throughout the country.

The information is as follows: (a) 2,058 man-days; (b) 411 man-days.

Due to the present restrictions on full time training of the FCA the available man-days are being allocated as equitably as possible, regard being had to such factors as liability for security duties and the location and strength of units. I am satisfied in the circumstances that the 11th Infantry Battalion is being reasonably catered for.