Phil Hogan
Question:119 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the provision of psychometric services in connection with Air Corps and Naval Service cadetships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13507/01]
Written Answers - Defence Forces Training.
In recent years the selection process for the award of cadetships in the Permanent Defence Force has involved psychometric testing which includes both written and verbal psychological assessments.
Arising from the high failure rate of trainee pilots psychometric testing was first introduced in the selection process for Air Corps cadets in 1990. Its introduction reduced considerably the failure rate of trainee pilots and was regarded as a success. It was subsequently introduced as part of the selection process for Naval Service and Army cadets.
Research shows that psychometric testing can accurately predict future performance and represents a best practice approach to the selection process for cadetships.