Up to 500 Defence Forces jobs to go in re-organisation

Up to 500 Defence Forces jobs will be axed under controversial re-organisation plans put forward by Defence Minister Alan Shatter.

In a move the minster said was necessary due to the financial problems facing the country, Ireland’s army will see its three brigades merged into two units over the coming months.

Under the measure, Cork will lose 64 troops as groups like the 4th Infantry Battalion will be stood down.