Vol. 421 No. 2
85 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Defence if it is the policy to call applicants for apprenticeships with the Permanent Defence Force for a medical, even when they have not obtained a sufficiently high placing to qualify for a vacancy; and if so, his views on whether this is a necessary expense.
Candidates for apprenticeships in the Army and Air Corps Apprentice Schools who are considered suitable for an apprenticeship by an interview board are called for a medical examination as part of the selection process. This procedure is designed to ensure that no undue delay occurs in having apprentices commence their training in the apprentice schools by the appointed date. Up to 1990 the practice was that successful applicants did not undergo a medical examination until first reporting for enlistment. However, due to the fact that a significant number of candidates either failed the medical examination or failed to take up the offer of appointment, the process of filling all available vacancies was usually not competed until two to three months after the commencement of training. This resulted in a disruption in the training programme and was unsatisfactory both for the apprentices and the staff of the apprentice schools. The conditions governing the apprenticeship competitions which are issued to all applicants state that: Following interview a number of candidates may be required to undergo a medical examination at a designated military post. This medical examination is part of the selection process and does not imply that a candidate has qualified for an apprenticeship.
The cost of the medical examinations is borne by my Department.
I am having the present arrangements for medical examinations reviewed to see whether any improvement can be made.
