Vol. 519 No. 3
136 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the low morale among member of the Defence Forces serving in Monaghan Barracks, due to the delay in its refurbishment; when work will commence in this regard; and the timescale for completion of the works. [13843/00]
In recent years refurbishment works relating to central heating, sewage treatment, fire alarm system and gymnasium floor were carried out at Monaghan Barracks at a cost of approximately £280,000. Work commenced recently on a contract for the re-roofing of the gymnasium at a cost of approximately £135,000 and is expected to be completed in about 12 weeks. A contract for an outdoor training area, which was placed earlier this year and is valued at approximately £83,000, is due to commence shortly and will be completed in a period of six weeks. Routine maintenance will continue to be carried out as required and as resources permit.
I am satisfied that all reasonable steps are being taken in the context of the Government's commitment to the improvement of living, operational and training accommodation for the Defence Forces.
