Ulick Burke
Ceist:131 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Defence the reason he has allowed the working conditions in no. 4 hangar in Baldonnel to decline to Dickensian standards. [4870/99]
Written Answers. - Defence Forces Buildings.
Frances Fitzgerald
Ceist:186 Ms Fitzgerald asked the Minister for Defence the reason he has allowed the working conditions to decline to Dickensian standards in no. 4 hangar in Baldonnel which are unheated, leak water and may give rise to claims at a later stage. [4926/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 131 and 186 together.
Hangar no. 4 at Baldonnel has been showing signs of general age deterioration. Last year a detailed examination of the building was carried out by the corps of engineers. It was found to be structurally sound but a number of shortcomings were noted. The hangar is heated by air blowers supplemented by smaller electrical appliances.
A programme of works to address specific defects has been commenced. In January 1999 a contract was placed for reconstruction of gable piers and it is anticipated that a contract for reroofing will be placed later this year. Toilet and shower facilities are being installed by the corps of engineers. Further works will be undertaken as necessary and as resources permit.