Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 45: To ask the Minister for Defence if the Army Equitation School recruited the required number of grooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20160/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The position is that the day to day administration of recruitment in the Defence Forces is the responsibility of the Chief of Staff. I am informed by the military authorities that the Army Equitation School has an establishment of thirty-four (34) other ranks and vacancies presently exist for two (2) Non-Commissioned Officers and ten (10) Privates (Grooms). The 2008 recruitment process is ongoing at this time. To date a total of 19 persons have been identified as suitable for the position of Private (Groom). Prior to enlistment all such persons undergo normal intake procedures i.e. medical screening, physical training test and Garda Síochána Security Clearance. On successful completion of the above procedures candidates are placed on a panel for enlistment in the Defence Forces as an Army Equitation School Private (Groom).