Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I do not wish to mention timeframes which I will subsequently be asked about in the House. There are some indications the change in the height requirements is having a beneficial effect. As a result of this change, slightly more than 90% of the female population is now eligible to join the Army. That is an increase from the previous level of 65%. Based on research carried out, we will be putting in place a number of other measures. An advertising campaign will be involved, as will visits to schools etc. It is my objective to reach the 10% target I have set as quickly as possible.

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