VOLUNTEERING.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 2023, 18 August 1880, Page 2

VOLUNTEERING.

The "Volunteer Gazette" thinks that the whole question of the administration of the force wants opening; up and settling on a sound basis; and if the root of the matter is to be got at all existing volunteer Acts should be replaced by measure more in consonancs with what is required. Extended powers should be given to the commanding officers over their men, and officers before receiving commissions should pass an examination that would establish their qualifications for the positions they seek to fill. We (Dunedin "Star") agree with our contemporary that the present examinations are nothing else than a farce, and in some instances have led to the appointment of officers utterly unfit! to fulfil the duties required of them." A thorough military man should be at the head of the Defence Department if volunteering is to take a really high position in the colony; and to secure a really efficient, energetic, and in every way suitable man, the Government should not scruple to give a good salary and have the appointment made by competent military authorities at home. Adjutants should be appointed to instruct the officers and assist the officers commanding districts. The present system of appointing acting-adjutants monthly from the commissioned officers of the various corps cannot be said to be a success. . . . They are really adjutants in name only, and cannot hope to command the respect which the holding of the position should entitle them to< There are plenty of good men to be got fc2 these positions at a very moderate salary.