Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First - I mean this seriously - I bow to the Deputy's expertise in the construction industry and in looking at the houses and at their possibilities but, put simply, I do not have the funding to restore housing accommodation and I have a responsibility, as Minister for Defence, to ensure we do everything necessary to facilitate the operational capacities of the Defence Forces and the best training possible. In the context of the limited capital available to us, it is important we focus this expenditure on facilities related to that.

The Department of Defence does not have a role in providing housing or facilities other than those necessary for operational requirements. I will reflect on what the Deputy has said. I am familiar with the houses that have been referenced. For a range of security reasons, we cannot open the Curragh Camp to general housing for individuals who are not connected with the Defence Forces. As the Deputy will presumably understand, that would create its own range of difficulties and problems. I will be happy to reflect on the manner in which the Deputy has raised this issue. Unfortunately, my hands are substantially tied from a financial perspective. The dramatic reduction in the capital available on the defence side was detailed by me earlier. I have to ensure there is a focus on ensuring the training, safety, well-being and operational capacities of members of the Defence Forces.

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