Laois Civil Defence to expand volunteer force this month

Laois Civil Defence will begin a recruitment drive this October

Published 5th Oct 2026, 12:30 BST Members of Laois Civil Defence. Photo: Laois Civil Defence social media. Laois Civil Defence will begin a recruitment drive this October People in Laois are being encouraged to consider volunteering for the local Civil Defence group.

A national recruitment drive for the Civil Defence began in September, including in Laois.

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There are currently 64 active volunteers in the Laois Civil Defence who all meet the Minimum Training Standards of the Department of Defence. Two more volunteers are currently inactive awaiting recertification.

From January to September of this year, Laois volunteers turned out to 151 events. 65 of these were community events, 45 were training events, one was EU Presidency support, and two related to severe weather incidents.

The Laois Civil Defence responded to 10 medical incidents during this period and assisted gardaí on 28 missing person incidents.

The unit’s next volunteer recruitment intake is scheduled to commence this October, with a target of recruiting an additional eight volunteers during the winter period.

Laois businesses demand rising costs be a top priority in Budget 2027 The local recruitment drive will be supported by the national campaign led by the Department of Defence.

Commenting on the national recruitment efforts, Minister for Defence Helen 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."