Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The investment in Custume Barracks in Athlone happened in 2009 before the disestablishment of the 4th Western Brigade.

I am conscious that my time is coming to an end and I wish to refer to the Reserve Defence Force, which plays a pivotal role but is undervalued. We must recognise the commitments of members to volunteerism and the work they are doing within their community. That must be acknowledged.

Last Thursday I had an opportunity to table a question on the future use of Columb Barracks in Mullingar. In his opening speech the Minister referred to the scope of his Department to contribute to Ireland’s economic recovery through further engagement in Irish enterprise, research and the education sector. Could the Minister ensure the Department finds a long-term viable future for the barracks that was closed in 2012? A total of €30,000 in taxpayers’ money is being wasted in hiring a private location for the Reserve Defence Force when numerous buildings are lying idle in Columb Barracks. The Department of Education and Skills recently purchased a new headquarters for the Education and Training Board although significant space is available in the barracks. A new community college is badly needed in Mullingar. Perhaps the Minister would engage with the Department of Education and Skills on the matter. In some cases the Civil Defence works out of rat-infested portakabins. That is something that should be examined.

I acknowledge the Minister’s attendance at the launch of the fuchsia campaign 2015. Many retired ex-Army personnel are living in deplorable conditions. Perhaps the Minister would consider rehousing some of them in barracks which would provide a future use for them.

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