James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply. I emphasise, however, that I am not convinced that the case for savings has been proved. I have been informed today by a number of Army wives of a disturbing development in the matter concerning Columb Barracks. It has been brought to my attention that troops from Mullingar are being moved into the old FCA quarters in Athlone, which is a condemned building. It has been further claimed that troops will have to collect their weapons in Athlone and bring them under escort to rented premises in Mullingar for training purposes. This journey will be undertaken twice per day. Surely this is ludicrous in terms of cost and efficiency. Is the information provided to me true? There is great anger and frustration among people in Mullingar and the wider community about the closure of Mullingar barracks which has been an integral part of the community since 1814. I am as disappointed as everyone else about what has taken place.

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