Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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510. To ask the Minister for Defence the process whereby the Government issue a policy statement to the effect that all chaplains, that is, those of faith groups as well as those of secular beliefs, be equally accommodated in all respects in Government Departments where chaplains operate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17867/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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While the Defence Forces Chaplaincy Service caters for military personnel and their families who are predominantly Roman Catholic, there is one part-time Church of Ireland chaplain. Provision is also made to provide for the spiritual needs of all other faiths. The Chaplaincy Service respects the traditions and practice of those of other faiths and those of secular beliefs and ensures that the integrity of all these groups within the Defence Forces is respected.

Representatives of other faith groups and those of secular beliefs are encouraged to visit barracks and to partake in services.