Army Barracks Closures

Thursday, 27 September 2012

Questions (164, 165)

Robert Troy

Question:

164. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence the reason he has removed security from Columb barracks Mullingar, County Westmeath; and his plans to reinstate same. [41046/12]

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165. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence the progress that has been made in relation to securing alternatives uses for Columb barracks, Mullingar, County Westmeath; the consultations he has held with various Government Departments and agencies to see if they have a requirement for same. [41047/12]

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Written answers

Minister for Defence

I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 165 together.

Security measures have been in place at Columb Barracks since its closure. For obvious reasons it is not my Department’s policy to go into the specific detail in relation to those and any ongoing measures but I can say that the effectiveness of the security measures are being continuously monitored. Since the announcement of the Government decision on barrack closures my Department has written to each Government Department, various agencies and local authorities seeking expressions of interest in acquiring any of the properties to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures. Some discussion has taken place in relation to Mullingar Barracks. However at this time no substantial progress has been made towards achieving a sale. I can assure the Deputy that every effort will be made to dispose of the barracks so as to maximize the benefits to the local community.