I don't know what the situation is in Eire, but in the UK the EASA Aerobatic Rating will only be needed after Apr 2015 - and even then for aerobatics on EASA aircraft only. Those who wish to fly aerobatics in Chipmunks, Tiger Moths or other suitable non-EASA aircraft will not require an aerobatic rating.
The idiots in Köln have added a '40 hr as PIC since licence issue' pre-requisite before the Aerobatic Rating can be issued upon completion of the course, which we are trying to fight. Unfortunately, it seems that the CAA are currently too lily-livered to support the unanimous view of the BAeA, AOPA, LAA and the FAI opposing the EASA prerequisite - but we intend to put pressure on them to damn well grow a pair and to act in support of industry!