Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I welcome the decision by the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, to reduce the height limit for joining the Army, as this is progress, but why is a height restriction required? Will the Leader arrange a debate on this matter and invite the Minister to attend the House in that respect? According to some figures, 10% of women and 2% of men will still be excluded despite the decision. If one accepts the principle of equality and the need for more women in the Army, having a height limit is contradictory.

It would be interesting to discuss this matter in light of the fact that we are becoming a more diversified population. As time passes, more people from other ethnic groups will join the Army, many of whom will come from countries where the average height might be less than it is here, which is an aspect we should examine.

The Minister stated that 5% of Army personnel are women. He is considering measures other than reducing the height restriction to try to encourage more women to join the Army. An autumn debate on this matter would be interesting.