Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:57 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Defence if he will raise the age of recruitment into the Army to 18 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14167/02]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Recruitment.
The minimum age for general service enlistment and for enlistment of cadets to the Permanent Defence Force is 17. The minimum age in the case of apprentices is 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.
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 the FCA or Slua Muirí is 17 years. I am satisfied that these arrangements are appropriate and I do not propose raising the recruitment age.