Kildare South Fine Gael TD Martin Heydon has welcomed confirmation this week from Minister for Defence Simon Coveney that a new recruitment campaign for the permanent defence forces has now commenced.  This recruitment campaign aims to recruit 600 new general service personnel for 2016 and a further 850 to serve for 2017.

“This Government has committed to maintaining the strength of the Defence Forces at 9,500 and the new recruitment campaign announced today supports that.  Applications are being accepted for both the army and the navy and it is a great opportunity for many local young people in Kildare to sign up for a career in a vibrant and growing organisation where training and support is provided.

“There have been many significant developments on the Curragh in the last year with confirmation of plans for the development of a peace and leadership institute at the UN Training Centre confirming the status and reputation of our defence forces around the world.

“Based on recommendations in last year’s White Paper on Defence this recruitment campaign will specifically target more female recruits to increase female representation  in the force which is welcome.

“Full details of the application process can be found at www.military.ie and the applications will be accepted until Sunday 22nd May.”

ENDS