The Tullamore man was a member of the EOD unit.
A midlands man left the defence forces after realising the pay wasn't worth risking his life.
Mark Keely was a member of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit, which worked in the disarmament of bombs.
He served in the defence forces for 21 years, and says he was paid only 36 euro for a 24 hour duty.
The Tullamore man has been speaking to Midlands 103's Will Faulkner about his time in the service:
Uisce Eireann Working To Repair Burst Watermains in Westmeath
Mullingar and Moate are affected.
Laois Councillor Outlines 'Life Changing Experience' On Humanitarian Trip
Ashling Moran is part of a group of volunteers bringing 11 retired ambulances to Uganda through Hope On Wheels.
Volunteers Encourage People Across Westmeath To Hang Up County Flags
It comes ahead of Westmeath's clash with Cavan tomorrow.
Lough Ree RNLI Issue Bank Holiday Water Safety Appeal
They're warning that although air temperatures are rising, sea and inland waters remain dangerously cold,
Laois Village Raises €170k For New Sports Amenity
Fundraising efforts by locals means Ballyroan will get a new playground and sports facility.
Midlands Records Over 100 Homeless Children In April
Overall 333 adults and children accessed emergency accommodation last month.
Gardai Bank Holiday Operation Clocks Speeding Midlands Drivers
One driver had clocked 120 km/h in an 80 km/h zone in Westmeath's Walderstown zone.
Irish Online Shoppers Facing Higher Customs Charges From July
Offaly TD and Oireachtas Enterprise Committee member John Clenndennen says it will help local shops.
Offaly Bond Holder Wins €500k
The bond was purchased 20 years ago.
Muintir na Tíre Host Property Marking In Offaly
The event in Birr kicks off at 2.30pm.
Gardaí Pick Up Early Midlands Speeders On June Bank Holiday Weekend
Over 600 motorists have been clocked speeding across the country.
Plans In Place For Laois Housing Development
Ormonde Houses Limited wants to build 42 new homes in Portlaoise.
Water Network Upgrades In Laois
These upgrades will reduce the risk of supply interruptions.
Ministers Burke And Dillon Announce New Employment Permits
It aims to address ongoing skills and labour shortages across key sectors.
Carlow County Council Encourages Creatives To Apply To CUBE Craft Academy In Greece
It combines sustainable craft practice with professional development.
Midlands Gears Up For Vibrant June Bank Holiday Weekend
There's events taking place across the region.
HSE Midlands Points To Care Options Ahead Of Bank Holiday
People who require emergency care should continue to attend EDs.
Laois TD Criticising An Coimisiún Pleanála Planning Delays
He says delays are putting considerable strain on families.
Offaly Brothers Found Not Guilty Of Attempted Murder
The four brothers involved are all from Tullamore.
Midlands MEP Wants CAP Funding Boost For Young Farmers
Maria Walsh wants money ringfenced for future generations in the post 2027 CAP budget.
