Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

We also have one in Clonmel. The barracks in Cavan and Mullingar have people to fight on their behalf. The fight will continue because it is unfair to Army personnel, who are muzzled and not allowed to speak to anyone. I have been told I cannot visit the barracks without getting permission from the Department. If I wish to go to the officers' mess to have some refreshments, will I have to ask the Minister for permission? This is outrageous.

Deputy Tom Hayes, in particular, attacked the Fianna Fáil Government in recent years over any whiff of a wind that something might close. He was quickly on his high horse to preach. He topped the poll because he preached all that doom and gloom. I call on him now to keep the gloves off, or has he any say with his Government? He did not get a position in the Government. He has been a good colleague of mine for years but I call on him now to assert himself and do the same as his colleague in County Roscommon, rather than talking about it and saying he is organising meetings with Ministers. We have not had a single meeting with a Minister since this Government was formed. Deputy Hayes told me once that he has sole responsibility for organising meetings with Ministers, so where is the meeting? I invited the Minister, Deputy Shatter, to come to Clonmel some months ago. He said he would consider it but he has not. I hope he will not make an announcement that the barracks will be closed because it is a wonderful institution and a valuable part of the infrastructure. It makes a huge contribution to the economy and to community life. A major flood relief project is under way currently. It was built and designed with the intention to provide assistance from the Army when there are flood warnings but it will be in Kilkenny, Cork or Limerick. It is a strategic location in the south east and a very valuable-----

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