The Defence Forces are recruiting.

Almost 1500 personnel are being recruited for the Defence Forces over the next two years.

600 general service personnel are being recruited this year, with an additional 850 next year.

Minister Simon Coveney has said the new staff will rejuvenate the defence forces.

Female recruitment in particular is being targeted this year, with just over 6% of personnel at the moment being women.

He also reiterates the government's campaign to maintain a 9,500 strong permanent defence force.