Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2024
63. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on the defence infrastructure improvements that have taken place in Haulbowline since 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13042/24]
View answerThe Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out a programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027. The Programme reflects the complex environment in which the Defence Forces operate and the corresponding need for appropriate infrastructure to provide for accommodation and training of personnel, as well as the maintenance and storage of equipment for land, sea and airborne operational requirements.
In regards to the Naval Base at Haulbowline, Co Cork, the following capital works are completed or ongoing:
• Refurbishment of FORST Building;
• Upgrade of Block 8 Accommodation;
• Remediation of Spencer Jetty;
• Upgrade of the Oil Wharf and installation of Fire Detection and Firefighting System;
• Upgrade of Block 4 Accommodation.
The Deputy may also wish to note that the following additional capital works are included in the IDP for the Naval Base and are at various stages of the design and procurement process:
• Barracks Foreman Works Building Refurbishment,
• Block 9 Office Conversion,
• Old Comms Building Fire Repair & Upgrade – Cadet Accommodation,
• Cadets Mess – internal alterations and refurbishment,
• New Gym.
In addition my Department also allocates funding each year to the Defence Forces for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of its building stock. This devolved budget is a regular feature of the Delegated functions assigned to the Defence Forces by my Department. The individual prioritisation of specific projects to be carried out is solely a matter for the Defence Forces in keeping with the delegated nature of this budget.
