1,100 applicants for 12 navy posts

THE economic downturn is being cited as one of the reasons for the Naval Service receiving an astonishing 1,100 applications for 12 officer cadet places.

Last year, just 177 people applied for the dozen places.

And according to the navy, the number of applications during the Celtic tiger years had remained between 63 and 120.

A navy spokesman said the major jump in applications was probably due to two reasons.

“The recession must have some effect as there are less jobs out there... But it can’t be that alone.

“Secondly, in the last few years, the Naval Service has acquired a higher profile and these positions are seen as good, steady jobs,” the spokesman said.

The lowest number of applications for cadet posts was 63 in 2001.

The interview process for applicants who must range in age from 17-26, will conclude on October 2.

Offers will be posted out a fortnight later and the 12 chosen will be sworn-in on November 16.

School-leavers enter the service as ensigns while graduates get commissioned as sub-lieutenants.

They will be initially sent for basic military training at the Curragh, Co Kildare, and then go on to take part in a year’s basic training with the navy at its headquarters at Haulbowline, Co Cork.

Afterwards, they enter the National Maritime College of Ireland in Ringaskiddy where they have the option of taking degree courses in nautical science or marine engineering.

During the summer, the cadets hone their skills onboard ship.

On September 10, six officer cadets will be commissioned at a special ceremony at the naval base in Haulbowline. Five had entered the force as graduates.