Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

I do so gladly. As I indicated, the regulations prohibit members of the Defence Forces being sent abroad until after their 18th birthday. There is a low theoretical possibility that a person aged under 18 years could be involved in hostilities here. I assure the House that, having discussed this matter with the Chief of Staff when the question was submitted, I have been assured that there is no question of any member of the Defence Forces aged under 18 years ever being exposed to hostile action. The reason recruitment commences at 17 years is to enable the Army to explain the benefits of joining the Defence Forces to those completing the leaving certificate examination.

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