Cork Airport marked a significant milestone as the “Class of 2024” of the Airport Police and Fire Service officially graduated during a special passing-out ceremony at the airport’s Fire Station. Ten new recruits, the largest cohort in two decades, were presented with certificates after successfully completing an intensive three-month training programme.
The new team members, Eadaoin O’Riordan, Jim Booth, Seán Boys, Peter Furlong, Eoghan Cahill, Ben O’Flynn, Daire O’Shaughnessy, Aaron Griffin, Seamus McNamara, and Eric Brooks, will bolster Cork Airport’s robust safety operations, joining the force in January 2024. Surrounded by proud family and friends, the graduates celebrated their achievement, which marks the culmination of rigorous training in airport and aviation firefighting, emergency first response, airside and airfield driving, radio communications, aerodrome topography studies, and breathing apparatus certification.
Jim O’Connor, Head of Police, Fire and Operational Security at Cork Airport, praised the new recruits, stating:
“Congratulations to the ten members of the ‘Class of 2024,’ and I wish them well as they embark upon their respective careers in the Cork Airport Police & Fire Service. This is the largest class of new recruits that have joined the Airport Police & Fire Service in 20 years and is evidence of our commitment to upholding the highest of standards when it comes to airport security and safety. The ten new recruits will bring resilience to our force as they join our rosters in January.”
The rigorous training course was delivered by Aerodrome Fire Officer Trevor Healy and Station Officer Ciaran Walsh, reflecting the airport’s dedication to maintaining the highest international safety and security standards as passenger numbers continue to grow at Ireland’s fastest-expanding airport.
This new intake underscores Cork Airport’s focus on operational excellence, ensuring it remains well-equipped to handle its increasing passenger and air traffic demands while adhering to stringent safety measures.