Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It would seem the many systems the Minister of State and his predecessor have claimed to have put in place are not working because the female make-up of the Defence Forces remains at 6%. The 2015 White Paper on Defence highlights the importance of the resolution from the Security Council regarding setting out the vital role women can play in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, peace building, post-conflict reconstruction, reform and governance. It is crucial that Ireland plays its part in that regard.

Based on my contacts with female former members, I can say that there is a belief that, as with much else in the Defence Forces, which my colleague has already outlined, strong retention policies are the key because the retention of this personnel, including females, will result in role models and mentors who will attract more females to the forces. I again refer to the White Paper. It was suggested that a survey would be carried out to identify any impediments to the advancement of women in the Defence Forces, including the impact of the requirements of career courses and overseas service on female retention and advancement. Could the Minister of State give us an update on this? Has this survey been carried out and if not, when will it happen?

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