Defence Forces

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 January 2022

Thursday, 27 January 2022

Ceisteanna (105)

John Brady

Ceist:

105. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Defence if he will introduce a grading standard for facilities in which the failure to meet that standard would mean the Defence Forces would be obligated to source alternative accommodation for members that would at the very least meet a minimum standard given the substandard state of many Defence Forces accommodation facilities, in particular those in the Curragh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3893/22]

Freagraí ó Béal (4 píosaí cainte)

Deputy John Brady

I will get a written response from the Minister. On the Minister's watch and the Government’s watch, military accommodation continues to deteriorate. There are many substandard accommodation blocks, not just at the Curragh but throughout the State. The Minister needs to act. It is adding to the crisis within the Defence Forces and is leading to the continued haemorrhaging of members from the Defence Forces. We need to see a commitment to ensuring that, in the midst of a housing crisis, at least the basic minimum standard of accommodation can be provided for the people who are tasked to provide security to the State.

Deputy Simon Coveney

We have a standard we comply with on this.

Deputy John Brady

The Minister might adhere to it.

Deputy Simon Coveney

We have a significant investment programme that is under way, spending tens of millions of euro on physical infrastructure, and we will continue that investment in the years ahead.

Is féidir teacht ar Cheisteanna Scríofa ar www.oireachtas.ie.

Written Answers are published on the Oireachtas website.