Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 3

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Recruitment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

123 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if, he will review the criteria on height requirements for men and women which appears to discriminate against women; in view of the fact that there is a natural height difference between the sexes and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3868/98]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I have recently reviewed the height requirement for new recruits to the Defence Forces and, in the light of the natural height difference between the sexes, I have decided to amend the regulations to provide for a minimum height of 5'4" for females. The height requirement for males will remain unchanged at 5' 5".