Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are a number of matters. First, I am glad to hear I am not the only one who is a big fan of the Army Equitation School. I have visited it, walked through it and spent some time there talking to the riders. I consider it to be a valuable addition to the Irish Defence Forces that will not be undermined and hopefully will be enhanced significantly during my time in office. Clearly, however, there are budgetary considerations in this regard but no reductions are proposed there. Some investment is required, as well as some future partnerships in which the Army Equitation School could be involved. It will get strong support from me and I am glad to hear those sentiments because it is easier for me to do that if I get strong support from other parties, particularly those in opposition.

As for homelessness, for some time my Department has been examining how the Defence Forces could be helpful in a practical way. I spoke to the Minister, Deputy Kelly, this week about the involvement of some Defence Forces infrastructure in the context of providing short-term emergency accommodation through a difficult winter period if that would be helpful. There are well over 1,000 emergency beds available in Dublin and more are coming on stream for a winter response. However, I am anxious that the Department of Defence would play its part in being helpful when and where appropriate. At present, consideration is being given to the St. Bricin's site, that is, a former military hospital that is currently a military clinic. It has not had any capital investment for a long time. As a former military hospital, it contains wards and rooms and is located just off Infirmary Road, which is near Heuston Station for those members who are not from Dublin.

This is the obvious place to start because there are all sorts of complications if one accommodates people who are homeless in functioning Army barracks. While the personnel are trained very well, they are not trained to manage a homelessness problem that, as most members are aware, is a great deal more complicated than simply putting a roof over somebody's head in respect of supports, counselling, health care, addiction and so much more. The reasons people find themselves without a home are often highly complex and what it may be possible to do on a temporary basis is to work in partnership with Dublin City Council or some of the other organisations that provide the complex care needed for people who unfortunately find themselves homeless. It may be possible to provide some support structures, accommodation or security, that is, the kind of things the Army does well. To be helpful, the Department will have a representative tomorrow at the forum that is being convened by the Minister, Deputy Kelly, and which is closely supported by the Taoiseach. Moreover, if asked, the Department will be helpful.