Refurbishment of Cork naval base designed to boost recruitment and retention, Tánaiste says

Other incentives include a starting salary for new recruits of €40,000 and accommodation and food at Haulbowline base for just €43 a week

Defence Minister Micheál Martin maintains the infrastructure development and the recent doubling of the patrol duty allowance will make the navy a more attractive career. Picture: Larry Cummins

Tánaiste and Defence Minister Micheál Martin says a masterplan is being drawn up to further enhance facilities at the navy headquarters in Haulbowline, Co Cork, in the hope it and other recent measures will improve recruitment and retention in the force.

Sailors are no longer sleeping in ships on days off following the refurbishment of a Victorian-era block on the base, which houses 75 personnel.