Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I hope the Deputy understands that if a process is under way with regard to a reorganisation of the Defence Forces, issues of deployment will be part of the issues that are considered within the context of that process. I appreciate that the Deputy is essentially making the case that a brigade headquarters should continue to be based in Athlone. I presume that every Member of this House who represents Cork would make the same case on behalf of Cork and every Member who represents various constituencies in Dublin would make the same case on behalf of Dublin. I have asked that a process be undertaken to examine what is in the interests of the country with regard to how we should reorganise the Defence Forces. The location of brigade headquarters is part of the process. I will not second-guess the process; I simply reiterate what I have said to the Deputy, that any issues of relevance that should be considered in the deliberative process that is now under way will be addressed.

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