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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 1 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 2

Written Answers. - Naval Service Headquarters.

David Stanton

Ceist:

154 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the plans, if any, he has for the transfer of the Naval headquarters; the appointment and number of personnel involved; the timescale involved; the costings involved; if disturbance money will be paid to personnel involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9445/99]

The relocation of the Naval Service and Air Corps headquarters to Haulbowline and Casement Aerodrome, respectively, was a key recommendation of the Price Waterhouse report. I have therefore directed that the flag officer commanding the Naval Service and his staff should relocate to the Naval base, Haulbowline, by 1 July 1999.

A total of 20 Naval Service personnel, eight officers and 12 other ranks, are currently stationed in Naval Service headquarters in Dublin. The costs of transferring this headquarters to the Naval base have not been quantified, but I understand that some of the accommodation earmarked in Haulbowline will require refurbishment and there will also be some furnishing and equipment costs. However, extra office accommodation in Dublin will become available to my Department as a consequence of the relocation. Change of station allowance will be paid to all eligible Naval Service and Air Corps personnel who are involved in these relocations.

As was the case with the re-organisation of the Defence Forces, the reforms in the Naval Service and Air Corps will be of a positive nature aimed at ensuring the ongoing development of these services consistent with the needs of the State and those of the taxpayer. The relocation of the Naval Service and Air Corps Headquarters are entirely logical and sensible and are in accordance with the principles of good management practice.

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