asked the Minister for Defence the effect the reduction of £170,000 in 1989 for the purchase of provision for the Defence Forces will have; and if this reduction implies a further reduction in the number of serving personnel.

(Limerick West): I am satisfied that the amount provided in subhead K of the 1989 Defence Estimate for the purchase of provisions will be adequate to meet requirements. The 1989 Estimate is based on an average Permanent Defence Force other ranks strength of 11,400 as against 11,600 in 1988.

Would the Minister agree that the other ranks number, as recently as 1987, was 11,900 and that the figure projected for 1989 is a reduction of 500 and that in regard to an already overstretched Army that is going to be a serious problem?

(Limerick West): The average strength of other ranks in the Permanent Defence Force in 1987 was 11,655 and the current strength as at 3 September 1988 of other ranks in 11,861.

The Book of Estimates provides for an annual strength of 11,900.

I should like to ask the Minister if food for the serving personnel is purchased under this subhead. If so, and the figure shows a reduction of £170,000 for the coming year on the figure provided for 1988, does that not imply a reduction in the number of men or a cutback in the rations?

(Limerick West): I said that there was a reduction in the number of men from 11,600 in 1988 to 11,400 in 1989.

That is in contradiction to the information given by the Minister earlier when he sought to imply that he was recruiting additional men to the Defence Forces. Surely the truth now lies in the fact that there will be a reduction in the number, as this side of the House has been saying.

(Limerick West): The information I gave to the Deputy in regard to recruitment is correct. I have recruited the number I mentioned. Deputy Wyse asked about a reduction of £170,000 for the purchase of provisions and I have given the House the reason for that drop.

I find it difficult to understand the Minister in view of information contained in the Defence Estimate. According to subhead K——

The Deputy may not quote at Question Time.

That subhead shows a reduction of 6 per cent. Is the Minister satisfied that, taking into account that reduction, he will have adequate funds to cater for the Defence Forces? In other words, will there be enough food to feed the men and, if not, from what source will the Minister get the money?

(Limerick West): I should like to assure the Deputy that there will be adequate provisions to feed the men and women.

I am beginning to doubt the Minister.