asked the Minister for Defence if it is a fact that soldiers stationed in Kildare Barracks are not allowed to leave barracks until 6 p.m., that they must have passes signed by the O.C., that this regulation is not enforced in any other barracks, that in other barracks soldiers can leave at 2 p.m. and return at 10.30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays without passes, and, if so, whether he will consider the advisability of granting those privileges to the soldiers stationed in Kildare.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - KILDARE BARRACKS REGULATIONS.
Soldiers stationed in Kildare Barracks who are not on duty or are not for some reason permitted to be absent, are allowed to leave barracks from about 4.30 p.m. until 9.30 p.m. on week days, Monday to Friday, and from 2 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. They do not require passes for the purpose. These regulations apply to all soldiers stationed in the Curragh or its neighbourhood.