Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2023
341. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will address the issue of substandard accommodation in the married quarters section of Cathal Brugha Barracks (details supplied). [3013/23]
View answerMembers of the Defence Forces who were allocated a Married Quarter and who subsequently retire, or leave are required under Regulation to return vacant possession of that property. Where the property is not vacated those remaining in the property, be they the former serving member, their spouse, children and/or other person, are regarded as Overholding. My Department has no agreement with the current occupant that allows her to remain in the property and the occupant was informed in writing that she does not have my Department’s consent to remain there.
That being said, the Deputy may wish to note that when maintenance issues are brought to the attention of my Department in relation to properties occupied by Overholders, matters of a Health and Safety concern are dealt with. In this regard, I understand that in 2020 when my officials were advised of an issue with the supply of water in the bathroom it was addressed without delay. Similarly, I understand that emergency works to the value of €28,000 were approved by the Department in 2021 to address the then reported issues. In relation to the matters now being raised by the Deputy, I have instructed my officials to liaise with the local military authorities to have this matter addressed.
