Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will respond to the last question first. As stated as of 31 January 2017, I am actively progressing the sale of Mullingar barracks. As stated in my earlier reply, I will consider any proposal from any group, organisation or body in Mullingar or Westmeath for taking in charge of Mullingar barracks. As mentioned, the barracks has been vacant for almost five years. Every group and organisation, specifically Westmeath County Council, has had every opportunity to develop a proposal for the facility. There are numerous acres of ground surrounding the barracks that are suitable for housing but it is not the responsibility of the Department of Defence to build houses on behalf of Westmeath County Council or to carry out feasibility studies for the ETB or any other organisation. The provision of funding for a feasibility study is a matter for Westmeath County Council. I am not aware of any of my colleagues having voted down the provision of €20,000 in funding to the ETB or other organisation to carry out a feasibility study but I will check it out. I am progressing the sale of Mullingar barracks but I am open to all proposals from Westmeath County Council, the ETB and so on, in respect of which they should contact my Department.

See this speech in context