Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 May 2024
158. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if a pathway could be provided for new members of the Defence Forces who are foreign born in passport or citizenship applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21766/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn applicant to the Defence Forces must either be a citizen of the State or be any other person who has a lawful entitlement to reside and work within the State for the period of time required for the purpose of any such appointment.
I believe it is critically important that the Defence Forces reflects the modern demographics of today’s Irish society. To that end, the Defence Forces is committed to supporting a diverse workforce through its various policies and strategies. I fully welcome and support these policies to promote diversity.
Although, there is no overall data to capture data in this regard, I am aware that there are non-Irish passport holders currently serving in the Defence Forces.
The Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces provides for the delivery of a range of diversity and inclusion enhancements which will achieve impactful change and ensure Defence Forces membership is more reflective of the diversity of Irish society. Among these recommendations is the adoption of measures to enable easier access to Irish citizenship for those who serve in the Defence Forces. An assessment of this proposal is set to commence in 2025 which will require, a inter-departmental approach, as issues of citizenship are a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice.
