Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for raising this issue. I always try to attend the Seanad. I very rarely do not attend the Seanad for issues of my own and if I cannot, I always ask Senators to perhaps defer it to a time when I can attend. Anyway, I have made my remarks with regard to the rest.

I have been asked by An Tánaiste to thank the Senator for raising this issue this morning and to apologise that he could not be here, given the other business requirements he is attending to at Cabinet. For those who may not be aware, the main training centre for the Defence Forces is more commonly known as the Curragh Camp.The installation is of significant historical interest not just for the local community but also for the nation as a whole, given its role as a military installation since before the foundation of the State.

In recognising its importance, the renovation and ongoing development of the camp is one of the mainstays in the Defence Forces' infrastructure plan. We are making significant strides towards improving the Defence Forces' built infrastructure, including accommodation facilities for our personnel. This year alone, we will be providing some €55 million for improving our built infrastructure - a record allocation that will increase in the years ahead to match the roll-out of new projects.

Projects collectively worth over €100 million are currently under way and are at different stages of development. Regarding the Curragh Camp, notable projects to be developed in the coming months include a new cadet school, a new engineering store, new garaging facilities and a communications and information services workshop. All are scheduled to commence in the coming months. In 2024, the following projects will also commence: new Army Ranger Wing headquarters; and a new military college auditorium suite.

Since the establishment of the Defence Forces, it has been long-standing practice to allow sports organisations, schools and local community groups access to military lands. This policy reflects the importance of the Defence Forces being front and centre within the communities they serve. This is a proud tradition that has served both the Defence Forces and generations within communities in good stead. I am happy to say it is intended that this practice will continue. The Tánaiste's Department received numerous requests for the use of all Defence Forces' facilities throughout the country and always endeavours to process any application for use in a fair, equitable and community-centred fashion.

In respect of the reopening of the swimming pool at the Defence Forces' training camp, the pool is currently in use for operational requirements by the military. There are currently safety concerns in relation to the reopening of the swimming pool to the public, particularly in the context of child safety concerns. I am sure the Senator will appreciate that these safety concerns take precedence and need to be resolved before the swimming pool can be reopened to the public. To that end, the Tánaiste has been advised that the matter is under consideration within the Defence Forces, and it is intended that a report will be submitted to the Department shortly.