Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 24 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 5

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Recruitment.

Proinsias De Rossa

Question:

125 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Defence his views on the recent suggestion made by the general secretary of PDFORRA that consideration should be given to the recruitment of non-nationals to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22974/00]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith):

The question of enlisting non-nationals in the Defence Forces is not a new one. At present, the military authorities have the authority to approve applicants for enlistment who are not Irish nationals. Each application is taken on its merits and examined on an individual basis before a decision is made. I understand that about ten such people are currently serving in the Defence Forces.

At the recent annual delegate conference of PDFORRA the question of targeting recruitment of non-nationals was discussed. The general secretary of PDFORRA addressing the conference called on the Ministers for Defence and Justice, Equality and Law Reform to initiate immediate discussions with all interested parties, with a view to inviting and attracting non-nationals to join the Defence Forces in return for an accelerated entitlement to citizenship. The general secretary when speaking on the motion also indicated that he wished the issues raised to be considered with a view to presenting details of any scheme to next years conference for approval.

In looking at this issue it goes without saying that Irish society has to become far more open and inclusive. There are many existing rules, attitudes and assumptions which will have to be challenged as part of this process. In that context it is opportune that we review the criteria for enlistment in the Defence Force. I will approach the review with a completely open mind concerned only to ensure that whatever rules need to be applied will reflect the realities of the 21st century. However, I would caution that the existing rigorous selection procedure and security clearance requirements will always be applied.

The question of entitlement to citizenship is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Officials from my Department will work with the military authorities and with officials from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and other interested parties to review the current criteria in relation to enlistment.