New campaign highlights opportunities to join Civil Defence

Minister for Defence, Helen McEntee TD, today (Monday, 7 September) launched a targeted bus shelter campaign encouraging people to join Civil Defence and serve their local communities.

The campaign will feature across 100 bus shelter locations in Kildare, Kerry, Cork, Limerick

and Carlow and highlights the diverse and rewarding opportunities available to those who join the Civil Defence.

Civil Defence members play a vital role in supporting communities throughout Ireland. Working in partnership with local authorities and the emergency services, they assist with a wide range of activities including community events, search operations, emergency response and severe weather incidents. Members also provide medical support at numerous local events each year and receive recognised training in a range of specialist skills.

Launching the campaign, Minister McEntee said:

"Civil Defence members make an invaluable contribution to communities across the country and their dedication and commitment make a real difference. Recruitment traditionally takes place during the autumn period and I would encourage anyone interested in giving back to their community to consider joining their local Civil Defence Unit. Members receive high-quality training, develop new skills and become part of a proud tradition of service that benefits communities nationwide."

Minister Helen McEntee

As Ireland enters the autumn winter season, this campaign highlights the important role Civil Defence members play in supporting communities during severe weather and emergency situations. It follows the recent launch of the Government's Be Emergency Ready campaign, which aims to strengthen community resilience and preparedness across the country.

This bus shelter campaign will be complemented by an organic social media campaign later this month, building on the success of previous recruitment initiatives and showcasing the important work carried out by Civil Defence members across the country.

Anyone interested in learning more about Civil Defence or applying to join can visit www.civildefence.ie/join

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Notes

• Two distinct Civil Defence recruitment posters will feature across 100 bus shelter locations in Kildare, Kerry, Cork, Limerick and Carlow.
• The campaign will run from 7 to 20 September 2026.
• Civil Defence members support local authorities and communities across Ireland through emergency response, search and rescue, medical support and community assistance activities.