11 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence the number of males and females recruited into the Defence Forces to date in 1996; the comparative numbers of men and women currently serving in the Defence Forces at each rank; the plans, if any, he has to facilitate women's participation in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23801/96]

227 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the proposals, if any, he has to improve the gender ratio in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23722/96]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 227 together.

The number of men and women serving in each rank in the Permanent Defence Forces is in the form of a tabular statement which I propose to circulate in the Official Report.

To date in 1996 a total of 63 males and ten females were recruited to the Permanent Defence Forces for training as apprentices and cadets. The selection process for the enlistment of 200 recruits for general service in the Army and in the Naval Service is taking place at present and, in the circumstances, it is not possible at this stage to say how many females will be enlisted. However, 17 per cent of applicants for enlistment in the Army and 14 per cent of applicants for enlistment in the Naval Service are female.

Women are eligible for service in the Army, the Air Corps, the Naval Service and the Reserve Defence Forces and to compete for all appointments on an equal basis and under the same conditions as those which apply to men. All female personnel undergo the same training and receive the same military education as their male counterparts. In essence the basis of selection is suitability rather than gender.

TABULAR STATEMENT

The number of male and female members of the Permanent Defence Forces serving at each rank at present is as follows:—

Is it true the percentage of women applicants has increased in the current recruitment drive?

Some 17 per cent of applicants for enlistment in the Army and 14 per cent of applicants for enlistment in the Naval Service are female. This is the first time women are being recruited to the Naval Service in non-officer positions.

How many males and females applied for the voluntary early retirement scheme?

I do not know, but I can get the information for the Deputy if he tables a written question to that effect.

Is the Minister aware of the widespread disappointment among people over 22 years of age who are excluded from applying because of the reduction in the age limit to 22? Is he aware of the disappointment among people who have served in the FCA for a considerable period but for which no credit is given? Will he consider increasing the age limit?

I do not know what will happen in the future. It was decided to reduce the age limit to 22 because of the age profile problem and the lack of young people in the Defence Forces.

Would it not be appropriate to give credit for service done in the FCA?

I will consider increasing the age limit in the future. If a person who has served in the FCA applies for a position, their generous service will be taken into account when deciding who will be selected.

The people who have given meaningful service in the FCA should be recognised.

(Wexford): Can the Minister confirm if the reason there is such a small percentage of women in the Army is because of the lack of adequate facilities in the barracks?

I have made it clear that men and women will be treated equally in terms of their application and selection and that they will be trained in the same way and receive the same opportunities as anyone else. Recruting women to the Naval Service is a major step forward despite the fact that ships are not fully equipped for women. I am certain women who apply and are successful in the interviewing process will be as good as anyone else. As I said before, women are capable of looking after themselves on board ships or anywhere else. I am proud that the basis for selection is suitability rather than gender.