Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 November 2019
74. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the serious shortfall in the number of civilian maintenance staff at the Defence Forces training centre at the Curragh, which has fallen to just over 30 from a previous figure of 200; and the steps he is taking along with the OPW to ensure full and proper maintenance of the buildings on the Curragh. [45705/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraCivilian Employees are appointed to support the operational capability of the Defence Forces. There are currently 126 Civilian staff, including maintenance personnel, employed in the Defence Forces Training Centre. Recruitment of Civilian Employees in military installations is an on-going process, vacancies are identified and filled on a priority basis. 2019 has seen an active approach towards recruitment of maintenance personnel. 9 electricians were recruited across a number of installations including the Defence Forces Training Centre. A competition is currently underway for recruitment of carpenters and plumbers, again across a number of installations including the Defence Forces Training Centre.
In relation to the built environment within the Curragh, I am committed to the development and improvement of the physical environment and living conditions in military installations throughout the country. The Defence Forces Built Infrastructure Programme, is compiled on a priority needs basis by my Department in conjunction with the Military Authorities. This year some €28m was allocated towards the maintenance of and the development of new building projects for the Defence Forces. This represents an increase of over €10m compared to 2018 and I can confirm to the Deputy that it is intended that the budget allocation will be matched in the coming years to ensure that the level of building activity is in line with Defence Force requirements. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that works on the upgrading and refurbishment of Plunkett Block 7 in the Curragh Camp, Defence Forces Training Centre has commenced. This project involves the refurbishment of the existing accommodation for 58 personnel.
