Kiss’ appointment continues the restructuring under new head coach Declan Kidney and follows the recent appointment of Gert Smal as forwards coach.

After a successful playing career, Kiss initially coached in league with North Sydney Bears and London Broncos - now Harlequins RL.

He then switched codes to coach in union in 2001, when he was recruited by South Africa as defence coach.

Kiss took up posts with a number of South African club sides before returning to Australia for a six-year spell with the New South Wales Waratahs.

He said of his new role: “The opportunity to work with Ireland and to be involved at the international level of the game held great attraction for me.

“I am looking forward to working with Declan Kidney and his group and learning about and contributing to the overall structure.

“There is an exciting challenge ahead for us over the next few years in the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup in 2011.”

Former Munster coach Kidney added: “This is another key appointment for the new coaching team and again we are delighted to have secured someone with Les’ experience and top-level coaching credentials.

“He brings with him a fresh outlook and coaching ideas from both codes and I am sure will add a new dimension to the defence aspect of the team.”