asked the Minister for Defence if it is intended to carry out improvements at Lahinch camp, County Clare.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clare Army Camp.
2.
No special works are contemplated at Lahinch camp. As part of normal maintenance it is the intention to have external painting carried out there in 1977.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the dilapidated appearance of the camp at Lahinch? It has become very bad over the years. Some time ago the regular Army at Limerick went on rest camp there in addition to a training camp for the FCA. It was an ideal centre. The invigorating health breezes from the Atlantic are very good for soldiers who need a rest. I should like to bring to the notice—not from a military point of view—of the GOC of the Southern Command that the Lahinch camp is an ideal situation for young soldiers in training. There is the seaside and the golf course and in addition to the major golf course there is a training golf course as well as beautiful pitches on which to play games and beautiful Clare girls to dance with at night. It is a highly entertaining centre. I think this centre should be developed or redeveloped.
The Deputy is making a speech.
It is not a speech. Our President designate is a former captain of Lahinch and the young soldiers might have a chance of playing golf with the President of Ireland. Would the Parliamentary Secretary please have Lahinch camp renovated? It is an ideal centre. I should know because my last four years in reserve were in training——
Speeches are not in order. The Deputy may not continue on those lines.
As the Deputy knows, the camp at Lahinch has been used for the training of members of the Defence Forces. It is not an occupied military post but I shall tell them to give it a very good coat of paint next year.
Thank you.