Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 3, inclusive, together.

As of now, no decision has been made by Government on the future of any military installation. However, the closure of barracks will shortly be considered by Government as part of the comprehensive review of expenditure.

Various commissions, reports and studies dating back to the 1990s identified barrack closures as a fundamental requirement for improving military effectiveness and efficiency. Since 1998, a total of ten barracks have been closed under two barrack consolidation programmes. A total of €84.98 million has been realised from the disposal of six of these barracks and part of another. The moneys realised from the sale of these and other Defence properties have been reinvested in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces.

My priority must be to ensure that all decisions regarding resource allocation are focused on maximising the capabilities of the Defence Forces and ensuring its continued operational capacity. Also, I am anxious to ensure, in so far as is possible, that the Government is not compelled by fiscal and budgetary constraints to effect any substantial further reduction in the current number of personnel in the Defence Forces. As on previous occasions, a Defence Forces security assessment will inform deliberations on any proposed closures.

I regret that prior to this matter being considered by Government in the context of the overall review of expenditure, uncertainty has arisen as to the future of barracks and that this is a cause of concern to members of the Defence Forces and family members. As a consequence of the appalling financial legacy inherited by the Government, we are obliged to implement a substantial reduction in public expenditure. My obligation as Minister for Defence is to engage fully in the review of expenditure that is being undertaken. The Government has no choice but to ensure that this State fully meets its obligations under the EU-ECB-IMF agreement concluded by the previous Government in November 2010. Against that background, it is completely unrealistic to ask, as has been asked in that past, that any aspect of defence expenditure, including barrack operation and maintenance, be excluded from review.

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