Goudy, sorry to say but i kinda agree with flagda. My best advice is assuming that things are similar in Ireland and honestly i have no idea if they are is A. get some first responder (ie emt) training B.try to get a job at dispatch to make yourself "known" C. military experience.
I'm not a marvel, it took me 6 years to get appointed. A lot of it is who you know IMO, try to get some connections.