Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his detailed response. I want to focus specifically on Columb Barracks in Mullingar. Councillor Andrew Duncan works very solidly in Mullingar and he and I are clear in our minds that a key element is that there must be a solid dividend from the development of this site. The listed buildings should have a sustainable use that will benefit Mullingar. Projects could be developed in the interests of the nation and of the people of Mullingar in terms of a museum, the highly significant historical events that are part of the DNA of Mullingar and, indeed, the proud history of the 4th field artillery regiment, which, unfortunately, left Columb Barracks in 2012.

It is a welcome development that we have an agency to drive forward this site and ensure we will have an increase in housing supply in our locality. It can ensure there will be no slicing and dicing, as the Minister said. There is a framework to develop this site in a sustainable manner and to protect and find a sustainable use for the listed buildings. With Brexit and all the various uncertainties and Mullingar being quite close to the Border area, no one knows what future this significant site may have. The Minister is focused on delivering housing. The chief executive of the new agency has met representatives of Westmeath County Council and I expect him to interact and liaise with all elected officials and the local authority to ensure the best possible use is secured for this site for the people of Mullingar to bring more vibrancy to the town and also to ensure that the site will not be sliced and diced.

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