6 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Defence if replacement uniforms and equipment will issue to FCA personnel as they are long overdue; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Arrangements were made in 1988 for the introduction on a phased basis of a new working dress for the FCA. The first issue of the working dress, which comprises a tunic, trousers and sweater, was made in mid-1989. To date approximately 30 per cent of FCA members have been supplied with the new working dress. The working dress will be issued to all serving FCA personnel on a phased basis as supplies become available.

A programme for the transfer of FN 7.62mm rifles, formerly held by the Permanent Defence Force, to units of the FCA commenced early in 1990 and is currently being implemented.

I should like to point out that the FCA are our front line of reserve and are called upon occasionally to carry out public duties such as guard of honour, etc. I have discovered that the uniforms and equipment have been swopped to dress those people properly when doing duty as a guard of honour. I request the Minister to have central supply depots in each of the four commands so that the equipment could be obtained quickly.

I hope to have a further delivery made in December 1990 which will go some of the way to meet the Deputy's request.

Thank you very much.