Vantaggi
Excellent training delivered by some brilliant instructors. Huge fitness boost. Good friends made. No challenge to big to undertake now. Serving the country. Good option for someone out of leaving cert or college leaver, not for someone with a higher level of education. Defence Forces will educate you, but will require significant time in payment.
Svantaggi
Very poor administrative functions. Very low morale among all ranks. Poor facilities, dangerous buildings. Promotion based on length of service, not ability. Can be restrictive if working in a speciality. Large undertakings for speciality courses. Lack of work/life balance due to manpower issues. Just a job for many members of management, don't care what happens after 16:00, out the gap.