Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I will reply to the last question first. My Department has been actively engaged in seeking alternative uses for the barracks involved. There has been real interest in possible uses, but I do not wish to go into this in great detail now. Engagements and discussions are taking place in the case of each barracks. There is real potential for the properties to be utilised in a manner that is in the public interest and the interests of local communities. However, some of the discussions are at a very early stage.

Cavan Barracks is one of the barracks in which there is substantial interest. We are anxious to ensure we will still have an appropriate location for the Defence Forces Reserve and that issue is being dealt with. We do not need to maintain a barracks that is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week to meet the needs of the Defence Forces Reserve. The Deputy is correct that an advertisement has been placed to see what appropriate premises might be availed of for the purposes of ensuring those members of the Defence Forces Reserve who are based in Cavan, have given good service to the State during the years and wish to continue their involvement with the Defence Forces can continue to do so without having to travel long distances. I am optimistic as to developments with regard to the vacated barracks, despite the current difficult property and financial climate. I expect it will be some time before I can make any announcements in this regard but I hope that, during the course of the year, I will be in a position to do so.

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