Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 37: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of females who are serving with the Defence Forces at present at various levels; the number that were recruited each year since 2005; the projected number for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20221/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Seven (7) females have been enlisted into the Permanent Defence Force to-date during 2008 out of a total intake of 169. It is not possible to project the number of females who might apply to enter the Defence Forces and who might succeed in that application. However, based on previous years, this figure might be expected to rise to fifty-five (55) by year end. A detailed breakdown of the number of females in the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps by rank and the number of females that were recruited each year since 2005 are in the Tabular Statements.

The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. Female strength in the Permanent Defence Force has increased from 468 at the end of 2001 to 560 as at 19 May 2008. Unlike many other national armed forces, the Defence Forces have no restrictions as regards the assignment of men or women to the full range of operational and administrative duties. All promotions and career courses are open to both genders on merit.