Re: RDF recruitment difficulties - a possible solution
As noted in your comment, there are significant difficulties meeting recruitment targets for the RDF.
I would like to suggest one very reasonable way in which this could be addressed - at least partially. The solution would cost nothing and would maintain high standards.
Solution:
Increase the current age cap (of 35 years) on recruitment to the RDF. Obviously this will increase applications in a way that will not entail a costly recruitment drive.
Also, the quality of recruits need not be reduced. Applicants over 35 should be expected to meet the same criteria that applicants are currently required to meet. Indeed it makes absolutely no sense to refuse an applicant based on their age if they meet all the physical requirements. Physical and mental suitability should be relevant - not age.
In addition, the RDF will have a larger pool of potential recruits to choose from which will contribute to increase the quality of new recruits.
Finally, the empirical evidence supports my view that recruits over 35 (who meet selection criteria) can make a full contribution to the service. The UK Territorial Army has an upper age limit of 49 years of age. Members of the TA are expected to meet high standards and are/were even involved in combat (Afghanistan). The respected TA has found no reason, even in combat, to restrict the age limit below the age of 49.
I believe I have offered a very reasonable argument to support the claim that we should significantly increase the upper age limit currently in place on RDF recruitment. I therefore hope you will consider my point.
John Cummins
Posted on 12 Mar 2018 12:48 am
Minister Paul Kehoe,
Re: RDF recruitment difficulties - a possible solution
As noted in your comment, there are significant difficulties meeting recruitment targets for the RDF.
I would like to suggest one very reasonable way in which this could be addressed - at least partially. The solution would cost nothing and would maintain high standards.
Solution:
Increase the current age cap (of 35 years) on recruitment to the RDF. Obviously this will increase applications in a way that will not entail a costly recruitment drive.
Also, the quality of recruits need not be reduced. Applicants over 35 should be expected to meet the same criteria that applicants are currently required to meet. Indeed it makes absolutely no sense to refuse an applicant based on their age if they meet all the physical requirements. Physical and mental suitability should be relevant - not age.
In addition, the RDF will have a larger pool of potential recruits to choose from which will contribute to increase the quality of new recruits.
Finally, the empirical evidence supports my view that recruits over 35 (who meet selection criteria) can make a full contribution to the service. The UK Territorial Army has an upper age limit of 49 years of age. Members of the TA are expected to meet high standards and are/were even involved in combat (Afghanistan). The respected TA has found no reason, even in combat, to restrict the age limit below the age of 49.
I believe I have offered a very reasonable argument to support the claim that we should significantly increase the upper age limit currently in place on RDF recruitment. I therefore hope you will consider my point.
Sincerely,
John Cummins