Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 6

Written Answers. - FCA Recruitment.

Ivor Callely

Question:

165 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the recruitment policy for the FCA; if he will give a breakdown of recruitment and total numbers in the FCA for males and females for the years 1990, 1991 and 1992; if he has satisfied himself with these figures; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Defence (Mr. Andrews)

Recruitment takes place on an annual basis to all units of the FCA within the permitted maximum strength levels.

A breakdown of recruitment and total numbers in the FCA for both males and females from 1990 to 1992 is as follows:—

	Recruitment	Total Strength
	Males	Females	Males	Females
1990	3,196	Nil	15,320	Nil
1991	2,462	200	15,190	200
1992	2,879	Nil	15,259	200

Recruitment of women to the FCA first commenced in 1991. This year to date 158 women have been enlisted and further recruitment of women will take place during the year.