Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I will be happy to convey the Deputy's views, with which I identify totally.

We are straying a little, but I am sure the Chairman will give me a moment's latitude. Members may be interested to know that as part of the current process of recruiting additional members of the Defence Forces, I have asked that particular attention be paid to efforts to improve the gender balance within the forces. I am concerned that we are not recruiting enough women. Unfortunately, working in the Defence Forces is not seen by many women and second level schools as a career for women. I emphasise that women can make a great contribution to the Defence Forces, while developing their personal skills in a way that will set them up to obtain other employment of great interest after they have finished in the Defence Forces. I have asked those working on the recruitment drive to place a particular focus on trying to improve the gender balance in the Defence Forces.

I am also keen to ensure greater cross-community representation in the Defence Forces. We know that over 12% of the population of the State is made up by individuals who were not born here. We have engaged in citizenship ceremonies since March 2011.

We have over 68,000 new Irish citizens. Many of these are young people, including children and teenagers. It is important our Defence Forces represent today's face of Ireland. I thought I should mention this in the context of the kind comments made by the Deputy.