Gerry O'Sullivan
Question:18 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence if the difficulties with the new Army range at Knockalisheen, County Clare, have been resolved.
Ceisteanna — Questions Oral Answers. - Army Range.
As I have indicated in reply to a Dáil question on 22 May 1990 the range at Knockalisheen has been closed temporarily. I am still considering certain aspects of the matter and will inform the Deputy of the outcome as soon as possible.
Could the Minister outline the extent and the type of negotiations or consultations that took place with local residents and farmers prior to the coming into operation of the Army range in June 1989 and the steps which were taken to allay the fears of residents?
The area was always used for explosives demolition and is of particular value because of its proximity to Shannon, which is always at risk from explosive devices. It has been the regular practice over the years to take any suspicious device of any kind discovered at Shannon to that area for investigation and explosion. The rifle range is a recent addition and there is just one farmer objecting in respect of the rifle range. The explosives operations are accepted. There is a distinction between the two.
Was any extra protection agreed in respect of farmhouses and buildings and were any works carried out?
There is only one gentleman concerned.
Notwithstanding that, was there agreement to carry out any protection work on the building, and if so was it carried out?
No. It has been made public that a member of the European Parliament, Mr. Patrick Lane, is the farmer in question. His is the only representation I have received in respect of the rifle range. It is accepted by everyone concerned that the location has been used for testing explosives for a number of years. Mr. Lane has raised an objection to the rifle range which has been established there. That matter is being investigated. There is no objection from anybody else.
Whether the person is an MEP or not, I would ask the Minister to take on board the fact that if his household was affected he would be entitled to protection work on his buildings. If that is the case, it should be carried out.
That is a matter he has discussed with me.
I am bringing it forward in this House.
It is very good of the Deputy.