Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 May 2012
540 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide a detailed description of Columb Barracks, Mullingar, County Westmeath; the size of the site; the number and size of buildings; the facilities and services available on the site in order that any perspective clients would be aware of the exact description of the site. [21575/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraColumb Barracks Mullingar is located on Ashe Road adjacent to the centre of Mullingar and consists of 24 acres. Approximately 10 acres comprises the main barrack area with the remaining 14 acres consisting of a camp field. There are a large number of buildings in the barracks which generally date from the early 19th century. The main building is a three story block which surrounds the main square and there are also a number of additional buildings on the remainder of the site. The majority of buildings were in use up to the time of the closure of the barracks. A small number of buildings are in a relatively poor condition and were not occupied in the recent past. As the barracks was a functioning entity up to the 30th March there are water, electricity and gas services on site.
When the Government took the decision to close a number of Military Barracks, I asked officials from my Department to enter into discussions with other Government Departments, Local Authorities, State Agencies and community groups regarding the possible purchase of the properties to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures. In this regard officials from my Department have met with officials from the various agencies and discussions are ongoing. I can assure the Deputy that every effort will be made to dispose of the barracks so as to maximise the benefits to the local community.
