Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)

It is important that the relationship between the Government and the society is clearly stated. The order establishing the society sets out its primary objects and powers which include acting, as Deputy O'Shea said, as a voluntary aid society in times of war and peace. The 1938 Act permits payment to the society by way of grants. The society has certain rights under the Geneva Convention and the Members of the House understand what they are. The Minister for Defence has no responsibility for the day-to-day running of the organisation. In terms of addressing staffing issues, there is no role for the Minister. It is one which much be addressed in the normal employer-employee relationship between the Irish Red Cross and its staff. However, as we are all aware many organisations are currently faced with financial difficulties and the society is no different. As an employer it must consider all options in order to maintain its financial viability. To that end, I have no doubt it will consider all remedial steps it considers necessary, in terms of minimising staffing costs. On the appointment of a chairman, as I said in my initial reply while no nomination has yet been brought forward by the Minister for Defence to the Government, it can be anticipated that it is a matter which will receive the urgent attention of the new Minister.

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