Naval Service Reserve

The Naval Service Reserve (NSR; Cúltaca na Seirbhíse Cabhlaigh) is the reserve force of the Irish Naval Service. It is one of two elements of the Reserve Defence Forces of the Defence Forces of Ireland, the other element being the Army Reserve. The NSR was established on 1 October 2005 to replace and reorganise the previous naval reserve organisation, An Slua Muirí.

Organised in four units, one each in Dublin, Waterford, Cork and Limerick, the NSR has a current approximate strength of 200 personnel, all ranks. The reserve supplements the crew of vessels of the Irish Naval Service during patrols of territorial waters and overseas visits.

Enlistment is open to all EU citizens between the ages of 17 and 34, provided they are ordinarily resident in Ireland, can pass a medical examination and are of good character, and also to non-EU citizens who have been continuously legally resident in the Republic for at least three years.

The NSR is a part-time, fully volunteer organisation, and trains members in aspects of nautical and military disciplines to supplement and aid the permanent Naval Service. Periods of enlistment vary and is initially for four years. Progression through the ranks is possible including a commission and promotion to the rank of Lt/Cdr.

Up to 42 days paid training may be undertaken by a reservist each year. Reservists are liable to be called up on permanent service by ministerial order in times of emergency.