Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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121. To ask the Minister for Defence to set out the extent to which the number of women in the Army, Navy and Air Corps has fluctuated in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35138/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The following table sets out the strength of females in the Permanent Defence Force, broken down into Army, Air Corps and Naval Service for the years 2011 to 2015 (31st August, 2015).

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. 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.

The Defence Forces prides itself on providing a gender neutral working environment. Policies on equality are being constantly communicated to all ranks. The military authorities are alert and vigilant to this issue and are committed to addressing this matter in a continuing and proactive manner.

As previously advised to you, a number of specific initiatives have been implemented to increase female participation in the Defence Forces including:

- The introduction of best practices in recruitment, such as the adjustment of physical standards for female applicants;

- Special consideration is paid to women as a target group for recruitment;

- A balanced composition between men and women on recruitment and selection boards;

- All promotions and career courses are open to both sexes on merit and;

- A Gender Advisor has been appointed to promote gender equality policies and training within the Defence Forces.

I believe that a key issue in recruiting and retaining female personnel lies in societal perception and attitudes to female soldiers and officers. I am hopeful that through continued engagement and communication, this perception will change over time.