Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2024
152. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when it is proposed to change the colourblind requirements for entry to the Defence Force as approved by the board review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41345/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraCandidates applying for positions in the Defence Forces are required to meet specific criteria, which include medical standards for military service, as laid down in Defence Forces Regulations, made pursuant to the Defence Act 1954, as amended and extended. These medical standards are based on the professional advice of the Medical Corps and having regard to the nature of the job, the duties of military service and the training exercises undertaken by members of the Defence Forces
The vision standards required for entry to the Defence Forces include that applicants colour vision must be normal. The Defence Forces colour vision standard is defined by the ability to pass the Ishihara Colour Plates. To be accepted as an eligible candidate for entry into the Defence Forces, the applicant must have a normal result in this test.
The conditions for entry to and service in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF), including the methodologies used for assessments, are subject to continuous review and modification having regard to the needs of the organisation and the development of best practices. More specifically in relation to the issue of colour blindness, a Defence Forces Colour Vision Working Group, established to review the colour vision requirements for entry to the Defence Forces, has concluded its work. The military authorities advise that the report and its recommendations remain under consideration.
