41 local soldiers to deploy on very first overseas mission within weeks

41 local soldiers are facing into their final few weeks of training ahead of their first overseas deployment.

The Minister for Defence is set to visit Kilkenny this Friday to inspect the 57th Infantry Group of James Stephens Barracks before their April the 4th departure to the Golan Heights.

A ‘March Past Parade’ through the streets of Kilkenny will follow.

The soldiers are coming to the end of 12 weeks of intensive training.

Speaking ahead of this Friday’s inspection and parade, Lieutenant Barry Piper told KCLR News they’ll be well prepared for the mission.