Vol. 403 No. 8
7 Mr. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the number of recruits taken into the Defence Forces for the year 1990; where each of these is based; the number he intends to recruit in 1991; the average age of serving members of the Defence Forces; and if has satisfied himself that his recruitment programme is adequate to maintain a vibrant force.
8 Mr. McGrath asked the Taoiseach if recruitment within the Defence Forces is now dependent on retirements.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 8 together.
The total number of general service recruits enlisted in the Defence Forces in 1990 to date is 745. These recruits were distributed as follows:
|
Eastern Command |
240 |
|
Curragh Command |
160 |
|
Western Command |
140 |
|
Southern Command |
45 |
|
Naval Service |
130 |
|
Air Corps |
30 |
|
Total |
745 |
In addition to the 745 general service recruits a total of 104 apprentices joined the Defence Forces since 1 January 1990. Forty-eight were assigned to the Air Corps and 56 to the Army Apprentice School. The total number of non-commissioned officers and men who left the service during the period 1 January 1990 to 31 October 1990 was 430. The average age of non-commissioned officers and privates in the Permanent Defence Force is 34 years.
The question of recruitment in 1991 will be kept under review in the light of the overall budgetary situation and the operational commitments of the Defence Forces.
I am fully satisfied that the Defence Forces have the necessary resources to carry out their allotted tasks.
Is the Taoiseach satisfied that 745 recruits were sufficient for 1990 in view of the many promises made in the House by the former Minister that 1,000 recruits would be accepted in 1990?
The strength at any given time is a matter of recruitment and wastage. Wastage has decreased considerably this year.
Would the Taoiseach agree that he should not be dependent on wastage to recruit new members? The average age is 35.
By wastage I mean people going out, not recruiting in.
I understand that. Is it not true to say we are developing a force which will no longer be young and vibrant and able to keep up with the duties they must perform, if the recruitment programme does not come up to standard?
I would not agree.
Will the Taoiseach indicate how many recruits were women and how many of those who left the force were women?
I will let the Deputy have that information. I do not have it to hand.
Is there a specific policy of encouraging women recruits to join the Army?
Yes, very definitely.
How successful has that policy been?
I will give the Deputy the figures.
