There is an historic connection between County Tipperary and County Kerry — we both suffer from a superiority complex when it comes to hurling and football that is the envy of everybody.
I thank the Senator for raising this matter. Following the Government's decision to further consolidate Defence Forces personnel in fewer locations, four military barracks — Clonmel, Cavan, Mullingar and Castlebar — closed on 30 March. As a result, military personnel who were occupied in performing security and support functions within these installations were released for operational duties, leading to substantial efficiency gains. In addition, there are direct savings in terms of utilities, maintenance and security duty allowances in the four barracks.
When the Government took the decision to close a number of military barracks, my colleague, the Minister for Defence, asked his Department to enter into discussions with other Departments, local authorities, State agencies and community groups on the possible purchase of the properties to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures. To this end, officials from the Department of Defence have met officials from the various agencies and relevant local authorities and the discussions are ongoing. Every effort will be made to dispose of the barracks to maximise the benefits to the local community.
As a result of the closure of the four barracks, there is a need to provide alternative accommodation for the local Reserve Defence Force units. In this regard, the Department of Defence placed advertisements in relevant local newspapers seeking tenders for the provision of suitable accommodation. This is a normal arrangement for reserve units in other locations around the country. The Department has ten permanent rentals and 30 part-time rentals in place, including the part-time use of parish and community halls, as well as some commercial premises. The total annual cost for all 40 premises is less than €100,000. I am sure the House will agree that, based on what I have said, the renting locally of alternative accommodation for Reserve Defence Force units is the most appropriate course of action. There is no economic argument for keeping a full barracks open to cater for a reserve unit which may only train for a few hours once or twice a week when alternative rented accommodation can be provided for a small fraction of the cost.
Following receipt of the tenders, the Department and the military authorities undertook an examination of the proposals received. This process included, among other matters, an assessment of the accommodation offered, particularly its suitability to meet the needs of the local Reserve Defence Force units and compliance with health and safety requirements. In addition, discussions with the owners of the properties on terms and conditions and what alterations might be required were also undertaken. As a result, I am pleased to say suitable alternative accommodation has been identified in the various locations, including Clonmel and Mullingar. The necessary documentation, including tax clearance certificates, has been requested from the owners of the properties. The Department has been advised that it should be submitted in the next few days. When it is received, formal lease agreements will be entered into and the local reserve units can take possession of their new training accommodation.
I think the Senator has received positive news. I started on a positive note and end on one also. Perhaps I should come here more often and be the bearer of such good tidings.