Defence Forces Personnel Data

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 21 November 2018

Wednesday, 21 November 2018

Questions (105)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

105. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of women applying for and enlisting in the Defence Forces, with equal respect to the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48633/18]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Defence

As of 31 October 2018,  the strength of the Permanent Defence Force stood at just under 9,000 personnel.  Of this some 583 personnel, were female, broken down as follows:

- Army: 484 Female Personnel

- Air Corps: 32 Female Personnel

- Naval Service: 67 Female Personnel

The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. This is underlined by a commitment in the Programme for Government to increase the level of female participation in the Defence Forces.