Ensign Orla Gallagher estimates that it could be up to 20 years before she is given command of her own ship. By then, she could have steamed the equivalent of six times around the world or 210 times around this island. Just 22 years old and from Dublin, she is one of a new generation of female cadets in the Naval Service.

She had no particular maritime background, she says, but was interested in joining the Defence Forces after leaving school.

"My careers teacher's husband was in the Air Corps, so she filled me in on that. I went down to see the LE Eithne the naval flagship, in Dun Laoghaire, and that was it. I signed up in September, 1995." Her first week was spent at the base in Haulbowline in Cork harbour, and the second week was on a ship. "It is a good idea. It means you are very sure of what you have taken on."

Then there was three months' military training in the Curragh. It was only after she had been accepted that it was confirmed that a science degree course would be part of her five-year programme. Of five who joined with her, two dropped out; two of the three who stayed the pace are female.

She says she has experienced no discrimination, apart from the odd remark from an "older generation" - which she is well able to respond to. "I think it is based on concern. They are thinking of their own daughters, and whether they could cope. I just point out to them that I am doing the job!" Some 25 per cent of current intake is now female, and the integration of sexes is regarded as far better than in the Army.

Women are regarded as being more suited to communications, watchkeeping and radar work. Orla has already undertaken many boardings, during her time at sea - seatime being currently spent during college holidays.

She accepts that her working life when at sea will be anti-social, with shifts of up to 20 hours at times. The effect on morale of so many people leaving is not an issue for her: "The more that go, the more opportunities for those who stay!" Her one concern, and that of many of her colleagues, is the fact that a Naval Service qualification is not regarded as universal in the marine area. It is hoped that this will be addressed when the new national maritime college, involving both the Naval Service and Cork Institute of Technology, opens in Ringaskiddy.

Lieut Kieran Lynch (33), from Co Cork, was recruited in 1984. He was commissioned in 1991 into the supply and administration branch. Contrary to his expectations, he hasn't been at sea in the past eight years, and is one of 200 working ashore, out of the 1,000 naval staff. Efforts are currently being made to reduce this number, as part of the drive towards increased productivity.

In Lieut Lynch's case, his shore stationing is said to be due to a lack of seagoing appointment in his area. The compensation has been the opportunity to do further training, such as in computers, logistics, PE instruction and personnel management. He expects to return to sea next year, on the flagship, LE Eithne. He says he is looking forward to it . . . and he has "no plans to leave".