Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

I invite the Minister to visit Columb Barracks in Mullingar to see at first hand the important work done there. The barracks is vitally important in the region and to the country. It is used for training overseas contingents and was used prior to the current mission to the Lebanon.

I am disappointed that the Minister cannot give a commitment with regard to the future of the barracks and to learn that one of his key objectives is further rationalisation of barracks throughout the country. Mullingar barracks is of vital importance to our region, employing more than 200 personnel and 20 highly skilled staff. The income it generates in the region amounts to €20 million.

The people of Mullingar will fight tooth and nail against any attempt to downgrade or close the Mullingar barracks. I could quote the Minister's colleague at Cabinet, Deputy Willie Penrose, who made a stinging attack during the last administration when closure of the barracks was contemplated, but it was not closed. We will fight and the people of Mullingar will not allow any closure of Columb Barracks in Mullingar.

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