James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing me time to discuss this very important matter, namely, the need for the Minister for Defence, in light of the ongoing scare-mongering regarding the downgrading of Custume Barracks, Athlone, and the rumours relating to the 4th Western Brigade, to confirm his statement that there will be no downgrading of the barracks or job losses in Athlone. I acknowledge the considerable contribution and effort of my constituency colleague Deputy Nicky McFadden to save the facility in Athlone. She raised this at the parliamentary party meeting and at every available opportunity, not only this year but also over the past four or five years. She has made a considerable contribution towards obtaining in the region of €6 million to upgrade services in Athlone over the past four or five years.

It is essential to put to rest the very calculated political rabble-rousing that is seeking to cause fear and anger in the area, which has already shouldered more than its fair share of economic fallout. My primary consideration at all times is to ensure that Custume Barracks will continue to operate in its present capacity. My colleague and I will fight any proposal to close or downgrade the barracks, or carry out any threat against the 4th Western Brigade. They are vital to the economic and social profile of Athlone and must be retained. The barracks has been a feature of Athlone life since 1697.

I welcome the opportunity to share time with my constituency colleague Deputy Troy. I hope we are united in this matter for the good of our constituents, and not for personal gain for a political party. I am here to address the growing consensus in County Westmeath that the future of Custume Barracks and the 4th Western Brigade are at risk. However, I am determined to put what are merely rumours to rest. With politically motivated scaremongering raising fear and anger in an area already hard-hit by the economic downturn and credence being provided to those only too willing to believe there is no smoke without fire, I am anxious that assurance be given by the Minister of State, on behalf of the Minister for Defence, that Custume Barracks will be upgraded, not downgraded. I want him to confirm that there will be no job losses in Athlone.

In my dealings with the Minister, I have found him to be honest and fair at all times. His door is open to the Deputies from my constituency with regard to the well-being of the Defence Forces and the people living within the communities in which Defence Forces personnel are based. His record stands in regard to the open way in which he dealt with and facilitated the purchase of Connolly Barracks, Longford, by the local authority for the use of the people.

In the interest of our constituents in Athlone, I ask Deputy Troy to support Deputy McFadden and me in maintaining a calm, rational approach to the issue, which has been stirred up by the extreme elements through the use of false facts etc. The Minister has already given assurance. We want the rumours put to rest this evening. I hope he will reinforce his position and offer us reassurance.

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