Irish Defence Forces Have Just Announced More Than 800 Jobs

Great news this afternoon as more than 800 new jobs in the Defence Forces have been announced.

A huge recruitment drive has been launched, with a particular focus on increasing the amount of women and "new Irish" into the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service.

As reported in The Irish Independent, Defence Minister Paul Kehoe said that a new campaign would focus on hiring general service recruits, apprentices and cadets.

"This recruitment campaign is extremely significant as it opens up opportunities across the three services for young people to serve their country as members of Oglaigh ha hEireann and also offers an unique career and first class training".

Absolute pleasure to present 2016 Commemorative Medal to 54 Inf Gp UNDOF Golan Heights @defenceforces @pdforra pic.twitter.com/xmRXFR6UZK
— Peter O Halloran (@PeterOHalloran1) December 22, 2016

Recruitment last year reached an all-time high, with an intake of 690 new personnel (making it the largest cadet class in the history of the Irish State).

The aim is to bring back up the strength of the Defence Forces to the approved level of 9,500.

Mr Kehoe added that the Defence Forces "welcomed and respected all, irrespective of gender, creed, ethnicity or sexual orientation."

The military has been struggling to reach its target of 10% female intake, with a recent advertising campaign highlighting the benefits of joining the defence forces for women.

Do you know someone who would love to apply? Tag them in the comments and they can see more info about joining here.