Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

I am sure that if the Minister gave Army personnel the opportunity to make that choice, they would welcome it. With regard to the altar of fiscal rectitude within the Department, I am sure the Minister would not discriminate against young children with regard to much needed child care facilities, particularly at a time when the Minister is trying to encourage more female personnel to join the Army. Recruitment in that area is not going too well. I am aware the Minister has said previously that having a child care facility in the Curragh would not be a major incentive for attracting women into the Army, but it could be one of the many incentives necessary to attract women into the Army. Therefore, the idea should not be dismissed. I hope the Minister does not dismiss it.

See this speech in context