Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Browne said yesterday the Corps was hard-pressed to supply basic uniforms when their numbers stood at an average of 600.

However, with numbers approaching 1 500, he said the problem was reaching crisis levels.

Evidence of these growing numbers was seen yesterday during the inaugural annual Inspection Parade. Hundreds of cadets from the island's 22 public secondary schools and private schools marched and showed off their drill display at St Ann's Fort, at the Garrison.

Not enough uniforms

In addition, a significant number of those on parade were wearing their school uniforms because they did not have the uniform of the Barbados Cadet Corps.

Speaking during parade yesterday, Browne said the Corps had instituted self-help approaches to address the situation, but it was still not enough.

He outlined that fund-raisers were held, they sought sponsorship, uniform rentals, and even approached school boards.

"But, the situation is still unsatisfactory due to the high rate of growth," he said.