Duncan Smith
Question:349. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Defence if there are plans to sell off military property or installations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5690/21]
View answerWednesday, 3 February 2021
Questions (349)
Written answers
I can advise the Deputy that there are currently no plans, nor are there any Defence Forces' properties for sale, on the open market. I have previously indicated that my Department has had proactive engagements with the Land Development Agency (LDA), following confirmation of its interest in acquiring the former Columb Barracks in Mullingar for the development of housing provision. To this end, my officials continue to liaise with the LDA in order to facilitate the early transfer of these lands and property.
The LDA have also confirmed a future interest in acquiring the St. Bricin’s medical facility in Dublin 7. My officials are progressing the necessary preparatory matters in this regard.
In addition, the former Reserve Defence Forces facility, Rockbrae House, Bray which is surplus to military requirements, is to be transferred to Wicklow County Council for social housing development in the coming months.
The Department is also progressing the disposal of properties in Crinkill (County Offaly), Fermoy (County Cork) and Castlebar (County Mayo). These properties are at various stages in the disposal process and the intention is to finalise sale in 2021, subject to the normal legal exigencies of the conveyance process.