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Today, the Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Mr. Paul Kehoe, T.D. attended the Defence Forces Training Centre, in the Curragh, County Kildare to welcome the 95th Cadet Class into the Permanent Defence Force.
In addressing the cadets and their families Minister Kehoe said, “My role affords me the privilege of witnessing at first-hand the Defence Forces delivering on their high standards of operations both at home and overseas, in loyal service to the state. A dedication to duty, passion and professionalism are key traits of the Irish Defence Forces. Beginning today, you now also have a responsibility to uphold these values’.”
The Minister commented on the proud tradition of the Cadet School in the formation of military leaders who are respected among armed forces worldwide. In that regard he spoke about Major General Michael Beary, who had served as head of the UNIFIL mission in Lebanon, to whom he had recently presented the Distinguished Service Medal.
Noting that the 95th Cadet Class includes 7 Cadets from Malta, Minister Kehoe extended a welcome and stated that “Our two nations have established a strong relationship in matters of security and defence and our ties continue to strengthen.”
A career as an officer in the Defence Forces continues to offer many, varied opportunities for personal and professional advancement along with fair financial rewards and favourable terms and conditions.
In closing, Minister Kehoe thanked the families of the cadets for the support they have shown already.
ENDS