Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

The importance of the Reserve Defence Force is often underestimated. The 6,000 members of the Reserve use several barracks for training purposes, including Dún Uí Néill. The convenient location of barracks is an important part of the recruitment process. In the years commonly referred to as the Troubles, many young people were fortunate to have been recruited to the FCA rather than becoming involved with undesirable organisations. We should not undervalue the training and discipline that was imparted to young people through the FCA.

Last night approximately 500 people attended a public meeting in Cavan to voice their deep concern about the future of our barracks. They recognise that it is a hub of economic activity and are worried about the effect of its closure on their town. The barracks provides both direct and indirect employment by generating a demand for local goods and services. The soldiers and their families are an integral part of the fabric of life in Cavan. The uncertainty which the Minister has allowed to develop is a cause of concern for the local community and, in particular, the personnel based in Dún Uí Néill. Their families outlined to me at the public meeting, my clinics and by telephone their worries regarding relocation of the Cavan personnel and the additional financial burden that would ensue. Deputy O'Reilly and Senator Wilson accompanied me to last night's meeting and Deputies Heather Humphreys and Conlan were also represented.

The pivotal location of Dún Uí Néill is clear on maps of the Border area. Three barracks are located along our long land Border, namely, Finner Camp in County Donegal in the north west, Dún Uí Néill in the centre and Aiken Barracks in Dundalk on the east coast. It is clear that a barracks is needed in the central Border area.

Apart from the difficulties associated with the Troubles, the Army also worked alongside officials from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the Garda and other statutory agencies to limit the spread of foot and mouth disease and BSE. We value the major contribution played by the Army in that national effort. Our security forces ensured the successful implementation of a sophisticated and comprehensive programme that minimised disruption to the agriculture and food sector. Stopping the spread of disease from the neighbouring jurisdiction was of the utmost importance to protect the hard earned and well deserved reputation of our food industry. That reputation is key to our success in exporting food and drink products to 163 countries worldwide.

It is simplistic to say that soldiers can be moved when operational needs arise. That should only be necessary when the work undertaken is short in duration. For longer undertakings accommodation and other facilities are needed. If barracks are closed, which I hope will not happen, where will the relocated soldiers be accommodated? My understanding from speaking to individuals closely associated with the Defence Forces is that alternative accommodation is lacking should the Government proceed with closing the facilities named in the motion. I hope the Minister can assure us there will be no such closures.

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