Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In the context of the property portfolio, the obvious ones which have to be properly maintained are all of the different barracks, which members will be familiar with. I will not delay the meeting by going through the list. It includes the naval base and Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel. In addition, a number of smaller properties are used by the RDF.

The reorganisation of the RDF has resulted in number of properties becoming vacant. It is the same as in regard to barracks. For example, a lot of work is being done on barracks which have been made vacant and where arrangements can be made to effect sales of all or part of them.

The sale and disposal of various properties is currently being finalised. There are some new sales. For example, approximately eight acres at McKee Barracks in Kildare is being sold to the Department of Education and Skills; tenders for the married quarters in Orchard Park were due in on 14 June and the sale of 12 married quarters in Cathal Brugha barracks is ongoing. In the context of the RDF properties, these are available for sale. While some may be saleable in the current market others may not. In regard to those not saleable, we are open to constructive engagement locally in regard to any purpose they could serve that does not result in an expense on the Department of Defence. An amount of work is being done in this area.