Cathy Bennett
Question:142. Deputy Cathy Bennett asked the Minister for Defence if she has considered altering height requirements with regard to enlistment eligibility for the Defence Forces. [72039/25]
View answerTuesday, 16 December 2025
Questions (142)
Written answers
I am informed by the Defence Forces that candidates applying for positions in the Defence Forces are required to meet specific standards for military service, as laid down in Defence Forces Regulations, made pursuant to the Defence Act 1954, as amended and extended. These Regulations provide for a minimum height requirement for enlistment for both male and female candidates of 157.48cm.
The determination of a minimum height standard for enlistment in the Defence Forces is based on the requirement that all members can meet the physical demands of military training and operations thereafter, with service Personal Load Carrying Equipment, whether they are at home or overseas.
While there are no plans at present to alter the height requirements for enlistment, the conditions for entry to and for service in the Defence Forces, including the methodology used for assessments, are subject to continuous review and modification having regard to the needs of the organisation, health and safety and the development of best practices.