Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

As has already been said, PDFORRA and the RACO were completely surprised and disappointed last December by the Minister's shock announcement. There had been no indication that this was coming down the stream.

I asked if the Minister has met the various stakeholders. The Minister of State did not say whether or not he has done so. If he has, whom has he met and when?

Which barracks will be the headquarters for the two new brigades? Given its central location and that it is served by a good road infrastructure, Athlone would be an ideal location for one of these headquarters. When will the Minister announce which brigade will be downgraded and where the new headquarters will be located? What number of senior armed forces positions will be removed in the new restructure?

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