Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 October 2012
213. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Defence if a person with only one kidney is automatically disqualified from joining the army; the reason there are no specific criteria or guidelines for applicants to see if they qualify before going through an entire process only to be informed after a medical that they are not eligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46670/12]
View answerAll applicants for entry to the Permanent Defence Force must be in good mental and bodily health and free from any physical defect, abnormality, physiological condition, or past history of serious illness likely to interfere with the efficient performance of his/her duties in accordance with Defence Force Regulations. Each individual’s medical condition is looked at taking into account a detailed/documented history of the condition, including remissions, exacerbations, and any associated conditions, the extent of the condition, and a full examination of the individual by a Medical Officer of the Medical Corps.
There is no list of illnesses or conditions which result in an applicant being ineligible for enlistment. Physical and medical standards are of general application for entry to the Permanent Defence Force. These are based on the professional advice of the Medical Corps and have regard to the nature of the job, the duties of military service and the training exercises undertaken by members of the Defence Forces.
