Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 April 2023
157. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he intends to regularise through licence agreements the community groups who are utilising Columb barracks, Mullingar since its closure; when he will transfer ownership to the LDA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19224/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will aware, with the use by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth of parts of the installation to house those persons seeking refuge, those community groups who where using the premises on an unlicensed basis have been assured that their use on such a basis could continue. To that end I am advised that the LDA, who will be the eventual owners of the premises, have concluded extensive public consultations as to the future usage of the premises. In that light, it is considered more appropriate that such matters are addressed when the site is formally transferred to that Authority. In that regard, I can confirm that my Department has completed the necessary legal work to effect such a transfer, the further progression of same rests with the LDA.
