Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Defence the number of women at each rank above the rank of second lieutenant in the Defence Forces. [54945/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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As of 31 October 2012 there were 141 women serving above the rank of Second Lieutenant in the Defence Forces. Of these, 50 were Lieutenants, 57 were Captains, 32 were Commandants and 2 were Lieutenant Colonels. 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. 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.