Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

We must do everything to encourage more females to join the Defence Forces because at present, they make up just over 5% of the force. I agree with the Deputy on that point. However, female members of the Defence Forces who are pregnant are not deployed on overseas duties. In addition, if they are members of the Naval Service, they are not be deployed at sea and if they are members of the Air Corps, they are not expected to fly.

I am aware that certain of the representative organisations have made representations to the effect that some female members of the Defence Forces would prefer to wear civilian clothes while they are pregnant. The military authorities have a difficulty with this because they say that, by definition, the Army is a uniformed force.

A great deal of work has been done on the design and specification of maternity uniforms for female members of the Defence Forces who are pregnant. Despite this, however, difficulties continue to obtain. From that point of view and from being aware of the position, I have asked the working group to report to me as quickly as possible. I would be well disposed to accept its recommendation in this regard. I am advised that, in the context of its design and specification, the maternity uniform that is available at present meets best international standards. If improvements can be made and if I obtain the appropriate submission, I will respond.

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