Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 9 Oct 2002

Vol. 554 No. 5

Written Answers. - Defence Forces Property.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

209 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Defence if a person (details supplied) visited Collins Barracks, Cork, on 13 August 2002 and indicated that the officers' houses and the land accommodating Collins pitch and putt course are to be disposed of whilst the football pitches are being retained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15879/02]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith):

I am advised that while the officer in question visited Collins Barracks, Cork, on the date mentioned no indication was given by him to anyone regarding either the disposal or retention of any elements of the property known as the Camp Field.

Question No. 210 answered with Question No. 207.

Seán Power

Ceist:

211 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Defence the reason he has decided to write to overholders of married quarters in the Curragh Camp at this time; when and the locations he expects them to find alternative accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15881/02]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

216 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the position in relation to the overholding housing situation for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who has been requested to vacate the above Army property but who wishes to remain living there and who has strong Army links therein; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16586/02]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith):

I propose to take Questions Nos. 211 and 216 together.

Married quarters are provided for serving personnel of the Permanent Defence Force. The Department of Defence has no responsibility for the provision of accommodation for ex-members of the Force or their families. The overholding of 54 quarters by former members of the Defence Forces or members of their families can no longer be tolerated. Officials of the Department are at present interviewing all overholders in order to establish the particular circumstances in each case. When that process has been completed each case will then be considered on its merits before any further action is taken.