asked the Minister for Defence, having regard to the fact that the Army has been stated to be a special case, when the embargo on promotions will end in the Army.

Limerick West): As I informed the House on 27 May last, I have secured a modification of the restrictions on promotions in the Permanent Defence Force and the revised procedures are now in place. It is not possible at this time to say when it will be possible to remove fully these restrictions.

Is it not the case that the level of wages of commandants debars their families from third level education grants? If their families want third level education, these men have to leave the Army.

(Limerick West): That does not seem to arise from the question. If the Deputy puts down a specific question on that item I would be glad to answer it. Since June of this year 24 promotions have been made at officer level and 403 promotions at NCO and private level.

If those people are interested in advancing the education of their families they have to retire or opt out of the Army.

The Deputy is injecting new matter into this question.

(Limerick West): As far as the filling of vacancies at non-commission level is concerned, there is no bar whatsoever.

Is the Minister aware that there are great difficulties in the Border area, particularly with Border posts, because of the lack of promotions and the non-replacement of officers, NCOs and men who went out, to use the PDF slogan, on their ticket and were not replaced? Will the Minister comment on that?

(Limerick West): As I have said, vacancies at NCO level are filled in accordance with military requirements. I have given the House the details of promotions that have taken place at officer level since June of this year. The matter is under constant consideration.