Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

I share the misgivings about an installation of the size of Cathal Brugha Barracks being taken out of the Army property portfolio at a time when the national finances are in crisis. Will the Minister not agree that this is not the time to be disposing of property, in the first instance? As he pointed out, there would be a very significant upfront cost, as the McCarthy says, in terms of finding alternative accommodation. The McCarthy report says the rationalisation of premises would contribute to the reduction in numbers in the Permanent Defence Force. I am not sure what he means by that. Does the Minister have an understanding of that statement in the report, to the effect that the rationalisation of premises will contribute to the reduction in numbers? Does he mean, in fact, that if places are closed it is easier to get rid of people?

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