64 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence if he will outline (1) the intake of (a) male and (b) female apprentices to the Defence Forces in 1991 and (2) the provisional figures for 1992; and whether further recruitment is planned for 1993.

In 1991, 52 males and two females were awarded Army apprenticeships while 45 males and five females were awarded Air Corps apprenticeships.

It is proposed to award 36 Army and 30 Air Corps apprenticeships later this year. It is not possible at this stage to give a breakdown as between males and females.

No decision has been taken as to the intake of apprentices in 1993.