Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 327: To ask the Minister for Defence the strength by rank and gender of the Army, Naval and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8327/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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A detailed breakdown of the strength by rank and gender of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps are in the form of a Tabular Statement. 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 570 as at 31 December 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.