Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)

Question 66: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of women in the Defence Forces as of today in view of the forthcoming anniversary of the implementation of the Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1979, which enabled women to join the Defence Forces; the percentage proportions of women in the Defence Forces in 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005 and 2010; the equivalent proportions among equivalently sized armies in the European Union; if he is satisfied with the number of women in the Defence Forces; his plans to increase the proportion of women joining the Defence Forces; if he is further satisfied that all necessary changes have been made to ensure the Defence Forces provides a supportive environment for all Defence Forces members irrespective of gender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9306/10]

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