DUBLIN — Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris has launched a nationwide campaign urging citizens to join Ireland’s Civil Defence, spotlighting the life-saving skills and community impact of volunteer service. The initiative, titled Learn Skills. Save Lives, aims to bolster volunteer numbers to support emergency response and local events across the country.
The campaign will run across social media and radio, featuring demonstrations of key Civil Defence capabilities including medical response, drone piloting, catering, and land and water search operations. Harris praised the organisation’s role during Storm Éowyn, calling Civil Defence “the embodiment of volunteerism” and a vital asset in responding to climate-related challenges.
The launch coincides with commemorations marking 75 years of Civil Defence in Ireland. At Maynooth University, Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless presented medals to 350 volunteers from nine counties, celebrating decades of resilience and innovation. Lawless also highlighted recent funding through the Defence Innovation Challenge, supporting Civil Defence’s evolving role in search and rescue.
Founded in 1950, Civil Defence has transitioned from Cold War preparedness to frontline support in emergencies and community events. The Department of Defence continues to work with local authorities to expand its reach and readiness.
Interested individuals can learn more at CivilDefence.ie/join.
Source: Department of Defence, Civil Defence Ireland.
