Sir, – Newspaper reports tell us that the Naval Service is unable to send ships to sea due to non-availability of crews. The Army is unable to retain enough skilled personnel to meet its commitments, and the Air Corps is struggling with meeting the demands for its services. Notwithstanding our traditional reluctance to expend money on defence recruitment and equipment, surely it is time to consider a system of national service. The benefits, not merely a sufficiency of personnel, are obvious. Military or social service, as in other countries, would have a positive effect on the youth of the nation, reminding them of their obligation to protect and defend our way of life. – Yours, etc,
A JONES,
Mullagh,
Co Cavan.