John Gormley
Question:206 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence his plans to raise the age of recruitment into all armed forces to 18; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2119/03]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Recruitment.
The minimum age for general service enlistment and for the enlistment of cadets to the Permanent Defence Force is 17. There is an exception to the general age limit in the case of apprentices who may be recruited at 16. However apprentices are not assigned to any military duties until they have completed up to four years apprenticeship trade training, at which time they would be close to 20 years of age at a minimum.
All applicants for the Defence Forces who are under 18 years of age must have the written consent of a parent or a legal guardian. Military personnel who are under 18 years of age are specifically precluded from overseas service.
The minimum age for young people to join their local FCA or Slua Muirí unit is 17 years.
I am satisfied that the existing age limits for recruitment to the Defence Forces are appropriate and I do not propose to make any changes in this area.