1 (Copy) R.I. Constabulary Office,
Dublin Castle. 4/3/16 Dear Sir, With reference to our conversation on the telephone
yesterday I now send you a copy of the circular that was issued
with regard to the formation of a school of instruction for
N.C.O's from the R.I.C. in consultation with the Military
Authorities. The latter subsequently decided to take 150 of
our men - instead of the 100 referred to in the circular. In response to the circular, 199 men volunteered, of
whom 5 subsequently withdrew their names. From the remaining
194, the number allotted to the class, viz: 150 have been
selected by the I.G. and they will join on Monday next. Yours very truly
(signed) G. H. Mercer,
Private Secretary.
The Secretary,
Department of Recruiting for Ireland. 2 (Copy) Royal Irish Constabulary Office, Dublin Castle, 22nd. February 1916
IMMEDIATE
SCHOOL OF INSTRUCTION FOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS. County Inspector, A School of Instruction for non-commissioned officers
in the Army will open at Portobello Barracks, Dublin, on
or about 2nd. March, and I am glad to be able to inform you
that the Military Authorities are willing to admit up to
one hundred men of the Royal Irish Constabulary for a
course of instruction lasting from 6 to 8 weeks. The men so admitted would retain their status as members
of the Force while at the School. At the end of the
course, or earlier if specially recommended, those who have
attained the necessary standard would be in enlisted in the
Army for general service and be posted as Sergeants to
Irish units, while any who are not considered qualified
for such rank would return to Constabulary duty. The men while at the School would be supplied with
quarters and bedding in Barracks. Rations would be issued
to them at a cost of approximately 1/3-per day, and it is
possible that a small charge for Barrack Damages might be
presented to them. Please inform your County Force accordingly and submit,
with the least possible delay, the list of men who desire to
take advantage of this opportunity of joining the School
and to enlist in the army as Sergeants if considered qualified.
The list should give the man's name, registered number, rank,
age, length of service in the Force, and state whether he is
married or single. Opposite each name should be given your
carefully considered opinion and that of the District
Inspector, as to the fitness of the candidate for non-
commissioned rank in the Army. 3 If more than 100 men volunteer, a selection will be
made by me of the candidates who are considered most
suitable. (Signed) NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN.
Inspector General. 4 Recruiting
in
R.I.C.