477 army jobs at risk

Fears are growing for the future of the 477-strong 4th Infantry Battalion at Collins Barracks in Cork amid strong indications the unit is to be disbanded as part of a Defence Forces overhaul.

Senior officers have been advised that members of the battalion will be reallocated or redeployed in the short term to other units at Collins Barracks, home to the Southern Brigade.

However, there are grave concerns for their long-term prospects, according to Defence Force sources.