Statement

1,641 online applications have been received to date for the 30 army and 12 naval cadetships currently on offer from the Defence Forces (over 39 applicants for every job…and rising).  This figure shows over a 100% increase in applications for the Naval Service in particular.  Approximately 25% of all applicants to date are from university graduates (an increase of over 50% in graduates from 2008), the remainder being school leavers or current undergraduates.

All applications are online only at www.military.ie and the closing date is midnight on 21 August 2009, so applications are still being accepted.  Applicants will go through a rigorous screening procedure of aptitude tests, physical fitness test, medical test and an interview (details of these can be downloaded in a candidate’s information booklet).

Army cadets undergo 15 months officer cadet military training at the Military College, Curragh, Co. Kildare with the ultimate aim of being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant (officer) in the army.  Naval Service (Operations Branch) cadets undergo basic training in the Military College and at the Naval Base, Haulbowline, Co. Cork and at sea to qualify after two years as a naval officer on board one of our eight State ships.  Naval Service (Engineering Branch) cadets undergo similar training for the first year as Operations Branch and then move to the National Maritime College, Ringaskiddy to qualify them as Marine Engineer Officer’s on board ship.

Applications for all Cadetships remain open online at www.military.ie until midnight on 21 August 2009.

EMBARGO: 20 August 2009