Vol. 398 No. 10
68 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Defence the reason the majority of the 30 female recruits taken into the Army in April 1990 are to be allocated work as grooms to the equestrian section; when a further intake of female recruits will take place and the number involved; if adequate regard will be given to those applicants with talents other than stable or equestrian experience; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
In February 1990, applications were invited from females wishing to enlist in the Permanent Defence Force. It was indicated that successful candidates would be employed in a variety of appointments such as drivers, clerks, grooms in the Army Equitation School and military policewomen. A substantial number of candidates who applied had equestrian experience and expressed a preference to be employed as grooms in the Equitation School.
Accordingly, it is proposed to assign nine of the 30 recruits to fill existing vacancies for grooms in the Equitation School.
The strength of the Permanent Defence Force is kept under constant review in the light of current requirements and the overall budgetary situation. It is not possible at this stage to state when the next intake of female recruits will take place.
