Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I am sure the Minister realises this is the first time in our history there will be no Cadet School unless he is to change his mind. I appeal to him, that if he is to make exceptions this should be one of them. It probably will be, in any case, by the end of the summer. There are compelling reasons to support the taking in of the Cadet School for the future of our Defence Forces. In addition, regarding the skills base there at present, namely, the trainers and instructors, if there were to be no Cadet School this could affect some of those people who might move on and that would leave gaps. It is very important that the whole structure be maintained because we have a highly efficient Cadet School in this country and have produced some outstanding officers from that school. It is probably one of the best in the world.

I was in West Point last March and compared what I saw there with here. With regard to the quality of training and the approach used, we would be on par with West Point, if not ahead of it. I appeal to the Minister, regarding the issue of cadets, that he give serious consideration to taking on the Cadet School this year, for the reasons I have given. The young people coming into the Army are the lifeblood. These are the people who will be in control and commanding overseas missions in the years ahead. If the Minister breaks that sequence, I am convinced he will do damage to the future of our military personnel and the Defence Forces in general.

I want the Minister to give very serious consideration to changing his decision on the Cadet School.

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