Defence Forces recruitment drive launched

A total of 1,040 young men and women are being sought by the Defence Forces as part of a recruitment drive launched today.

The Minister for Defence, Mr Smith

The Minister for Defence Mr Smith announced the campaign on board the naval vessel

LE Roisin

, at St John Rogerson's Quay in Dublin.

A Defence Forces spokesman said candidates should be aged between 17 to 25 with the minimum height for male applicants 5.5" and for women 5.4".

Foreign nationals with a work permit can also apply ' providing the gardaí are able to complete the security check required of all candidates.

The Army is seeking 920 recruits, the Naval Service 100 while 20 are needed by the Air Corps.

The recruitment drive was started to maintain the strength of the Defence Forces at 10,500.

The spokesman added that 850 soldiers would be trained in preparation for joining the EU Rapid Reaction Force in 2003.

He said the Defence Forces is an equal opportunities employer.