asked the Minister for Defence the number of vacancies that have been filled in each rank from captain to colonel since he informed Dáil Éireann on 27 May 1988 of the relaxation of the embargo; the number of vacancies still to be filled as a consequence; and when they will be filled.

Limerick West): The number of officer vacancies in the Permanent Defence Force in each rank from captain to colonel that has been filled as a consequence of a modification in the restriction on promotions is as follows:

All vacancies authorised to be filled as a consequence of the modification have been filled.

The position regarding vacancies changes from day to day due to such factors as natural wastage and, accordingly, is kept under constant review.