Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The Reserve Defence Force is a very important part of the Army infrastructure. The Department has advertised as late as this week in its search for space adequate for its needs. A full-time barracks is staffed with full-time members of the Defence Forces. I am a former member of the Reserve Defence Force - as is Deputy Brendan Smith. I was a long-serving member of B Company, 8th Battalion and I was a good sharp-shooter in my day. Deputy Durkan is a good sharp-shooter still. The Reserve Defence Force has an important role as a part-time reserve but it does not require the facilities to which Deputy Troy refers. As regards the issue being debated by Longford County Council, this is a matter for discussion. I will mention it to the Minister.

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