Vol. 556 No. 4
81 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Defence the number of applications received for membership of the Defence Forces arising from the recruitment campaign launched on 8 February 2002; the total number of applications accepted; the total number of recruits in training; if the planned intake of recruits will be restrained as a result of spending adjustments imposed on his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20512/02]
A total of 3,462 applications have been received for consideration for positions in the Permanent Defence Force since the beginning of the year. Of this figure, 2,000 applications related to general service recruitment. Some 381 general service recruits have enlisted so far, of whom 242 are in training at present. The remainder of the pool of general service applications together with any further applications will be used during the year to fill vacancies. The number of applications received for cadetships in 2002 was 1,047 and 143 applications were received for apprenticeships in the Air Corps. As a result of these competitions 70 cadets commenced cadet training in the Curragh on 30 September and 17 Air Corps apprentices were enlisted on 23 September 2002.
Direct entry competitions for appointments including medical officers, engineers, ordnance corps officers, watchkeeping officers, engine room officers, electrical and engine room artificers in the Naval Service, as well as instrumentalists in the Army School of Music have been held. A total of 272 applications have been received for such competitions so far this year and 27 direct entry officers, 14 electrical and engine room artificers and seven instrumentalists have been appointed. The selection process in respect of these competitions is ongoing and it is expected that there will be further appointments before the end of the year. The established Government policy of continuous recruitment to the Defence Forces in 2002 to fill vacancies as required will be maintained.
Question No. 82 answered with Question No. 50.
Question No. 83 answered with Question No. 73.
