asked the Minister for Defence if he will make a statement on the present position regarding the FCA in the Army in view of the reduction of finances to the Defence Forces.

Financial support for the FCA is being continued at the same level as has obtained over the past four years. Strengths are being maintained and training and other activities are proceeding at a satisfactory level.

The Minister of State will agree that the members of the FCA do an excellent job in the Army but they are anxious about their future because of the cutbacks. Probably that anxiety arises from rumours which circulate. They would like confirmation that their future is secure particularly in the Border area where they are playing an excellent role in helping the Garda in a very difficult job. An assurance from the Minister of State that their future is secure in the Army would be more than welcome, and they deserve that.

Recruitment to the FCA since 1983 has been permitted to the extent necessary to replace wastage. The same conditions will apply in 1987. Vacancies are being filled from waiting lists of applicants and anyone wishing to join the FCA can go to the nearest military barracks in his local area and ask to be placed on the waiting list. Certainly I assure the Deputy the situation I have mentioned will continue.