asked the Minister for Defence how many married quarters are available for soldiers and NCOs at (a) Curragh Camp and (b) Kildare; how many additional residential quarters it is proposed to provide in each area; and when they will be available for occupation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Forces Married Quarters.
35.
A total of 403 married quarters for other ranks is available at Campa Tréineála an Churraigh and 26 at Dún Mhig Aoidh, Cill Dara. In addition 16 married quarters are being modernised and will provide 12 improved quarters. It is not proposed to provide additional quarters at either place in the immediate future.
Could the Minister say from information at his disposal today how many applications are on hands from serving soldiers for quarters in these two barracks?
Thirty at the Curragh and two at Kildare.
Is it proposed to proprovide for those 30 soldiers at the Curragh?
As soon as possible, but I might remind the Deputy that there are 14 houses provided for civilian employees and 17 held by overholders.
What consolation is that to a soldier who cannot get into the Curragh?
That is an entirely different problem.
Does the Minister hope to extend these activities to Renmore?
I can tell the Deputy that during the past ten years the average number of houses built at Army posts has been 16 per year and that in the next financial year, it is hoped to increase that figure.
That does not answer my question in regard to Renmore Barracks.
No decision has been taken as to where the next building scheme will be located. That matter will be dealt with when the present scheme has been completed.