Cathal Berry (Kildare South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chair and Deputy Clarke for her latitude and understanding. I think 60 seconds should be enough. On page 32, there is reference to receipts from occupation of official quarters. Some €90,000 was taken in rent. This proves that if we invest in military accommodation, it would not be a cost; it would actually be an investment because the Department would receive rent back. Something should be considered regarding married quarters. There are very few houses there and yet there is an income of €90,000 coming in under appropriations-in-aid, which is very important.

My last point is on appropriations-in-aid. Under receipts on discharge by purchase, €50,000 has been paid out by troops who have not fulfilled their full five-year engagement and are fined €300. These are people who have not gone to college or an educational establishment. They have only been taught how to march and shoot. I think this is an injustice. If the Minister could look into this and consider waiving the discharge by purchase system in the future, it would certainly help. As Members, we all sign up for a five-year term. If I leave today, I would walk out with a golden handshake, but if a private soldier walks out without having completed a five-year term, he or she would be handed an invoice for €300 or €900 depending on whether they have been taught to drive or not. There are all the questions I have.

I thank the Minister for hearing me out. I thank the Chair and Deputy Clarke for their latitude and understanding. It is much appreciated.