Lisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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74. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the most up-to-date figures for the strength of the Permanent Defence Forces with regard to all three services and all ranks; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14697/18]

Lisa Chambers (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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76. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of additional recruits the Permanent Defence Forces have taken on to date in 2018 with regard to all three services; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14699/18]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 76 together.

As of the 28th February, 2018 (the latest date for which figures are available), the whole time equivalent strength of the Permanent Defence Force, across all three services and ranks, broken down by gender was as follows: -

To return to, and maintain, the agreed strength levels, significant targeted recruitment took place in 2017 and has now commenced for 2018. A total of 751 personnel were inducted in 2017; of which 73 (9.72%) were female.

Two Direct Entry Medical Officers (1 Male, 1 Female) and a Direct Entry Naval Service Officer (Male) have been inducted in 2018. It is anticipated that in the region of 800 personnel, comprising of General Service Recruits, Apprentices, Cadets and Direct Entry Officers will be recruited to the Permanent Defence Force in 2018.

Current competitions consist of:

- A General Service Recruitment Competition, commenced on 26th March 2018 and closes on 22nd April 2018.

- An Air Corps Apprentice Aircraft Technician Competition, commenced on 3rd March 2018 and closes on 25th May 2018.

- A competition for Cadets is due to launch very shortly.

I remain committed to maximising recruitment of capable personnel, developing serving personnel, and so achieving the best personnel and skills combination to ensure the Defence Forces retain the capacity to operate effectively across all roles required of them by government.