Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)

I take the point the Minister has made, that is to say, he is not in a position to make any definitive statements at this stage. Will the Minister give an indication of his thinking? We may put forward the proposition that this is not the time to sell property and that the market is flat. On the other hand, if there were a case to be made on financial grounds to close or to cease to use a certain facility which would result in a recurrent saving, is it something the Minister would consider? I am not seeking details in any way. However, I wish to establish whether this is being considered in a serious way at the moment as a means of dealing with the Defence Forces property portfolio. Is consideration being given to dispose of or amalgamate properties and create a new situation whereby all activities would take place in one location and others would cease to operate?

See this speech in context