Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 June 2022
369. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider Custume Barracks, Athlone, as the location for the proposed Army headquarters as recommended in the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31654/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commission on the Defence Forces was established on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government and the Government decision in December 2020 which also agreed its terms of reference and membership. The report was published on the 9th February 2022.
The Commission undertook a significant body of work encompassing their wide-ranging terms of reference. The report contains 69 main recommendations and a number of sub recommendations. The Commission's terms of reference included the consideration of appropriate capabilities, structures and staffing for the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service.
The Commission's report proposes significant changes for the Defence Forces, including to Defence Forces culture, high-level command and control structures, and for the level of Defence provision in Ireland. The report is being fully considered, in consultation with Ministerial colleagues and other stakeholders.
The intent is that following relevant consideration, and before the summer recess, I will revert to Government with a proposed response to the Commission's recommendations and a high-level action plan.
One of the Report's recomendations is that the structure of the Army be reviewed and, in that context, the disposition of Units across the Defence Forces may be considered. As the Deputy will appreciate, it would be inappropriate for me to engage in speculative discussion on this matter prior to completion of the ongoing process, Government approval of any proposed plan of action, and completion of any subsequent reviews that may ensue.
