Careers in Security, Defence & Law Enforcement

Sectors

Security, Defence & Law Enforcement

About

Every state needs to protect its citizens. In Ireland, national security, intelligence and law enforcement is the responsibility of the Irish police force - An Garda Síochána. There is also a large private security sector, providing protection for homes, businesses and large public events or bouncers for pubs.

Skills

communication, initiative, adaptability, managing resources, time management, prioritising work, leadership, teamwork, critical thinking, decision making, enforcing laws and regulations, negotiation, people management, problem solving, developing relationships,

Key Facts

9,500

targeted manpower for the Defence Forces

Budget 2019, Irish Times

600

new garda� to be recuited in 2019

Budget 2019, Irish Times

33,415

number of security personal registered with the Private Security Authority

The Private Security Authority

1,560

number of companies providing security services registered with the Private Security Authority

The Private Security Authority

Labour Market Information

Approximately 58,800 persons (75% male) were employed in the Security, Defence & Law Enforcement sector, representing 2.7% of the national workforce.

Between 2012 and 2017, overall employment increased by 2,700 (1.0%) on average annually (compared to 3.1% nationally). The strongest rate of employment growth was observed for security guards (4.5%) during the period.

Excluding security guards, there was very little employment growth in these occupations over the five years examined and there was no evidence in the analysis of difficulties sourcing candidates.

In this Sector...

Law Enforcement

As a Garda you will face a demanding career, and the attributes selected for are very important to your day to day work. You will need to call on an understanding of team-work, excellent communication skills, a mind for problem-solving and the ability to resolve conflicts.

The Defence Forces

The Irish Defence Forces are made up of the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force. The three branches of the Permanent Defence Force are the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service.

The Prison Service

Working as a prison officer is a challenging role, in an often-difficult environment. You need to be physically fit person with a strong sense of integrity, team work and safety.

Security

There are thousands of security professionals in Ireland, operating in many different job roles. These include security guards, bouncers, hotel doormen, alarm and camera installers, locksmiths and private investigators.

Cybersecurity

Security professionals can now be found at most major organisations, not just technology companies. There are many specialist cybersecurity companies offering specific products or services that can enhance a company’s security profile.