Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 20 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 3

Written Answers. - Curragh Camp Facilities.

Seán Power

Ceist:

193 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Defence if he will utilise part of the proceeds from the sale of the military barracks in Kildare and Naas to upgrade the existing sewerage system in the Curragh Camp in view of the fact there are major civilian developments pending in Grainstown and the immediate vicinity and awaiting the upgrading of the military installation in the Curragh Camp; and if he will discuss joint funding with the Minister for Environment and Local Government. [9723/99]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

As I announced last year 60 per cent of the proceeds from the disposal of the six military barracks designated as surplus to military requirements will be invested in the redevelopment of other barracks. A programme of building projects designed to improve military operational, living and recreational accommodation at the Curragh Camp – and other locations – has been drawn up and will be funded under the Barrack Re-investment Subhead of the Defence Vote.

The question of upgrading the sewage collection and disposal system which serves the Curragh Camp has been under consideration by my Department in conjunction with the Corps of Engineers. Specialist assistance will be required to assess fully the condition of the present system and as regards project options for upgrading. As a first step the Department made contact last year with Kildare County Council regarding a proposal, which had emerged following consultation between the Council and the Department of the Environment and Local Government, to commission a feasibility study to examine at strategic level sewage collection and disposal requirements in the broader Curragh area. The study duly commenced in February 1999. The results of the study will be an essential factor in determining the Department's approach to upgrading the Curragh Camp system and on this basis the Department has agreed to contribute to the consultancy costs. Options for a works project relating to the sewage system at the camp will be examined further in the light of the outcome of the study which is due for completion later this year and financial provision will be made in the Building and Engineering Subhead of the Defence Vote as required.