asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that a number of non-commissioned officers and men stationed at Collins Barracks, Cork, are urgently in need of housing accommodation and that the Cork Corporation, which has 6,587 applicants on its waiting list, is unable to accommodate them; and, if so, whether he will have steps taken to provide these men and their families with housing accommodation of a permanent or temporary nature.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork N.C.O.s Housing Accommodation.
I am aware of the position referred to by the Deputy. The question of providing housing accommodation for married soldiers at the larger military centres, including Cork, is constantly under consideration and every effort is being made to solve the problem.
In view of the recruiting drive and the position of the Cork Corporation would the Minister consider this as a matter of urgency as far as Cork is concerned?
I do. I think it is a matter of urgency for the Minister and a matter of urgency for the Cork Corporation.
The Cork Corporation cannot do anything.
And I would like the Deputy to endeavour to secure for me and the people in question the same degree of co-operation as we have secured from the Dublin Corporation.
The Cork Corporation has no objection to soldiers and is doing its utmost to accommodate them. As the Minister represents the constituency himself I would appeal to him to do something for those soldiers who are invited to serve their country and are compelled to live with families of seven or eight children in one room devoid of sanitary accommodation.
I am delighted to have the Deputy's assurance as to the Cork Corporation.