Army Barracks Closures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 October 2012

Wednesday, 3 October 2012

Questions (170)

Willie Penrose

Question:

170. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Defence if he will make available the lands and buildings at Columb Barracks, Mullingar, County Westmeath for the benefit of State and Semi State and for community groups; if he is prepared to discuss the acquisition of same by such groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42250/12]

Written answers

Minister for Defence

As with previous rounds of consolidation under the Defence Forces modernisation programme, barracks once vacated are being disposed of with the proceeds being used to fund the upgrading of Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure. Since the announcement of the Government decision on barrack closures my Department has written to each Government Department and various agencies and local authorities seeking expressions of interest in acquiring any of the properties including Columb Barracks to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures.

As a result I can confirm that agreement has been reached with Mayo County Council for the purchase of Mitchell Barracks Castlebar and with the County Cavan VEC for the purchase of Cavan Barracks.

Whilst some discussion has also taken place in relation to Mullingar Barracks no substantial progress has been made towards achieving a sale to date. I would of course be happy to discuss with any interested group proposals they may have for the purchase and development of the site for the benefit of the local community. However any proposal involving the long term retention of Mullingar Barracks by my Department, administering multiple leases and fulfilling the many responsibilities of a landlord, would put a significant administrative and financial burden on my Department. Given the current resources available and the need to provide investment funding for the development of the Defence Forces I do not feel that the multiple leasing of Columb Barracks is feasible and does not meet the purpose of the property disposal programme as outlined in the White Paper.