Hair, beard rule changes for Defence Force members

Female members of the Defence Forces will be allowed to wear nail varnish and fake tan and have up to six different hair styles under new rules to come into effect tomorrow, the officer tasked with reviewing grooming standards has said.

Sergeant Major Keith Caffrey said the Defence Forces are making efforts to be as progressive as possible while also keeping health and safety and operational effectiveness in mind.

“Common sense prevails. What is throughout the whole document is whether it’s nail varnish, earrings, how you wear your hair – nothing should detract from the uniform,” he told RTÉ’s News at One.

He said that a colour range of nail varnish will be permitted and female members will be allowed more hair style options.

Previously they could only have short hair or wear their hair secured in a bun with a net.

“Now females can have up to six ways to wear their hair styles which are all depicted in our reference guide,” Sergeant Major Caffrey said.

Any changes must complement the uniform, he added.

Male members allowed to have beards

The officer said that changes for male members will also come into effect and they will be able to apply to grow beards.

They can seek permission to grow a beard and they will be monitored throughout the growing of the beard, he added.

“They will apply to their unit commander and there are specific reasons to not approve it, particularly in the operational environment.

“But people can apply and they will be inspected throughout the period they are growing the beard – because some people just can’t grow a beard.

“And there are regulations in relation to the length of the beard, straight lines under the cheekbones and an inch above the Adam’s apple.”

Sergeant Major Caffrey said there are regulations in relation to tattoos with racism, sexism, or anything that depicts substance abuse banned.

He said it is hoped the new measures will have a positive impact on people considering a career in the Defence Forces.

“This is about respecting the individual. Allowing them to be themselves but at the same time, regulating to be a military force.”

Sergeant Major Caffrey said efforts must be made to ensure the Defence Forces represent Ireland in 2024.

Another group is examining religous and cultural beliefs who will engage with key leaders in communities, he added.

“We need to consider differences between the Ireland that we did know and the Ireland of 2024 … so we can attract the diverse community that is Ireland today”.