75th Anniversary Event, Maynooth – 20 September

22 September 2025

On Saturday 20th September the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, presented commemorative medals to over 300 Volunteers from nine counties at Maynooth University.

Speaking at the event in Maynooth, Minister Lawless said:

“I am honoured to commemorate 75 years of Civil Defence in Ireland, a proud tradition of service, resilience, and community spirit. From its foundation in 1950 to its vital role today, Civil Defence has consistently adapted to meet the needs of the Irish people.

“Last May, I announced Research Ireland funding for the Defence Innovation Challenge, which included Civil Defence through its search and rescue role. It demonstrated how this organisation continues to embrace innovation while remaining true to its core ethos of service.”

Civil Defence in Ireland has evolved over the years, shifting focus from the threat of nuclear war to emergency response, medical response, search and community support. Civil Defence were particularly active during the heavy snow and Storm Éowyn earlier in the year. They are active all year round at numerous community events but also in support of the Principal Response Agencies.

Anyone interested in joining Civil Defence can visit CivilDefence.ie/join to find out more.

 

 

 

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