Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Does the Minister of State believe the Defence Forces have the capability to provide all their personnel with an annual medical examination at present? It is a simple question. Obviously, there is a difficulty if more than 2,000 personnel did not undergo a medical examination. The Minister of State will agree the health of the organisation is paramount and that each member of the Defence Forces should undergo a medical check-up every year. People tend to be reluctant to undergo medical check-ups, especially the male element of the Defence Forces. It is important that such check-ups should be both available and obligatory on an annual basis.

It also is highly important for the Defence Forces to monitor the health and fitness levels of their personnel at all times. Is a general medical report on the health status of the Defence Forces issued on an annual basis?

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