Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As Deputy Ryan will be aware, psychometric testing is important for entry to the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána and many other organisations. The candidate must have a specific skill set. The psychometric testing is a challenge. I am aware of some candidates passing it online and failing when they go physically to take it in an examination hall.

That is unfortunate and many people have come to me to say that. The psychometric testing is very important for the recruitment of all candidates.

As a matter of policy, the Government believes the military forces of this State should appropriately reflect and integrate the demographics of the whole population. To that end, the Defence Forces are committed to the principles of equal opportunities in employment policies, procedures, instructions and regulations. The Defence Forces operate in an environment without discrimination in all areas covered by Equality Acts. The Defence Forces seek to ensure that the principles of equality are adhered to in the recruitment, induction, employment and daily routines of training, education and promotion. We look to work with diverse communities to give people the opportunity to join the Irish Defence Forces and we are specifically focused on gender issues.

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