Written Answers. - Defence Forces Accommodation.
Jack Wall
Question:
35
Mr. Wall
asked the
Minister for Defence
his proposals to address the long-term living accommodation needs of members of the Defence Forces; if he is satisfied that this plan will alleviate the concerns of members; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[24503/01]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:
104
Mr. Durkan
asked the
Minister for Defence
the extent to which the quality and condition of military accommodation has been upgraded; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
[24772/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 104 together.
Approximately £43 million has been allocated to the capital building programme in my Department's Estimates for this year. In addition, almost £6 million has been provided for a continuation of a repairs, renewal and maintenance programme.
The refurbishment of living quarters and the provision of recreational and community facilities for military personnel is an integral part of my Department's building plans.
In this year's programme major accommodation works include conversion to student accommodation, Connolly Barracks, Curragh – £2.5 million; upgrading of billet blocks, Clarke Barracks, Curragh – £1.25 million; accommodation in NCOs Complex, Collins Barracks, Cork – £1.35 million; upgrading of billet blocks, Cathal Brugha Barracks – £.75 million; upgrading of accommodation units, Coolmoney Camp – £.7 million; refurbish accommodation area, Rockhill House – £.15 million; and refurbish billet accommodation, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway – £.2 million.
In addition, nine further contracts totalling more than £600,000 were placed to improve accommodation facilities during the year.
A five year building plan has been prepared to continue this work but obviously the extent to which the ongoing programme progresses will depend on the finance available during that period. I can assure the Deputy that I am fully committed to continued investment within the Defence Forces, with the building programme a priority for me, and that this programme, together with a new equipment programme, will ensure that the Defence Forces will develop as a world class military organisation in which people are proud to serve.
Question No. 36 answered with Question No. 30.
