In 2002 a total of 4,234 applications were received for consideration for positions in the Permanent Defence Force. Of this figure, 2,750 were applications for general service recruitment. As a result 500 general service recruits were enlisted and 93 were subsequently discharged.
In 2003 to date 2,618 applications have been received for positions in the PDF of which 1,209 were for general service recruitment. To date 77 general service recruits have been enlisted and a further 79 recruits are due to be enlisted shortly. At present there are 62 recruits in training.
The number of applications received for cadetships in 2002 and 2003 was 1,047 and 1,111, respectively. As a result of the 2002 cadetship competition 71 cadets were enlisted. The competition 2003 is ongoing.
As many as 143 applications were received for apprenticeships in the Air Corps and 17 apprentices were enlisted on 23 September 2002. The 2003 Air Corps apprenticeship competition was advertised on 23 March. The closing date for receipt of applications was 15 April. A total of 250 applications were received for this competition.
In 2002 a total of 294 applications were received for direct entry competitions for appointments for medical officers, engineers, ordnance corps officers, watchkeeping officers, engine room officers, electrical and engine room artificers in the Naval Service and instrumentalists in the Army School of Music. As a result 27 direct entry officers, 15 electrical and engine room artificers and eight instrumentalists were appointed.
Direct entry competitions for appointments for medical officers, engineers, watchkeeping officers, engine room officers, engine room artificers in the Naval Service along with instrumentalists in the Army School of Music and dental surgery assistants are currently being held. To date a total of 48 applications have been received for these direct entry competitions. As a result eight direct entry officers and one instrumentalist have been appointed. A further three DEOs are due to be appointed in the near future. The selection process in respect of these competitions is ongoing and it is expected that there will be further appointments this year.
In 2002 there were a total of 283 retirements from the PDF and for the first four months of 2003 the figure was 84. This figure includes all officers, who retired either voluntarily or on age grounds, and non-commissioned personnel who retired on pension after 21 years or on age grounds.