Yes, tough.
There's been articles about it in the mainstream press, I'm sure you can find if you search about.
As I said I know of people who are working now in hospitals who got in before there was an increase in applicants - they say how difficult it is for new people to get in, as unless they're are cream of the crop, they are competing with 100's for 1 or 2 places.
I also know someone training now, and he says the same, although as he's a male he has a greater chance due to the huge lack of men training at the minute.
Best bet is to ring irish society for chartered physios and as someone there...