Vol. 485 No. 3
112 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence the progress, if any, which has been made to date on the studies in his Department on the socio-economic contribution of barracks to local towns; and, if so, the current stage of the research. [23257/97]
The Defence Forces Review Implementation Plan 1996 which was adopted by Government in March 1996, made no provision for the closure of barracks during the period covered by the plan. It did, however, provide for a study of military accommodation to be undertaken during the life of the plan. It is proposed that this study should commence in mid-1998.
The Price Waterhouse study for the EAG concluded that there are too many barracks, many unsuitably located for military needs, many in very poor condition with unacceptably high upkeep costs and that barrack management and administration takes up an unduly large element of military manpower.
It is acknowledged that the question of barracks rationalisation, and more particularly their closure, is a very sensitive local and national issue. It will need careful study from a number of perspectives. The precise terms of reference and the modus operandi of the proposed study will be drawn-up as part of the implementation process. It is clear however that such a study must address the future infrastructural needs of the Defence Forces having regard to the security situation, the required disposition of military resources and the progress in relation to re-equipment and increased mobility. The study must also take full account of the economic and social implications of any proposal.
