Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 April 2009
196 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the upkeep and maintenance of Rockhill Barracks, County Donegal; the maintenance and security costs which will be incurred annually; if he envisages an alternative use for Rockhill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17253/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe closure of Rockhill Barracks was completed on 29 January 2009. A private security firm has been employed to provide security at the barracks in the short term with effect from 30 January 2009. As the appointment of this contractor is temporary, for commercial reasons it would be inappropriate to state the cost at this stage. It is not anticipated that a Private Security firm will need to be employed in the long term. However, my Department will continue to monitor the situation. It is anticipated that Rockhill Barracks will be disposed of, taking account of the market conditions, to maximise the return to the Defence Forces and generate funding for reinvestment in Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure in accordance with Government policy. Significant progress has been achieved over the past decade in re-equipping and developing Defence Forces capabilities, using the proceeds from the sales of surplus properties. We need to ensure this progress is continued. Having regard to the investment needs of the Defence Forces and given the current economic circumstances, it is important that my Department realises the full commercial value of the current properties. As such, it will not be possible to make the property available for other use.
