Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. There is a long-standing policy of allowing third-party access to Defence Forces facilities and properties in order to support the local communities and to raise the profile of the Defence Forces. This policy extends to a wide number of groups and activities, including GAA clubs, soccer clubs and numerous community groups throughout the country.

As the Deputy correctly said, there is a long-standing association with the Bere Island Projects Group, stretching back to 2013. This has been an association the Department has been happy to support and, I am advised, remains committed to doing so. The Department entered into a formal licence agreement with the Bere Island Projects Group for the use of Lonehort Battery on Bere Island on two previous occasions. The licence allows the group access to the battery for the purpose of its preservation, associated works and its possible development as a visitor attraction.

An application for a licence renewal from the Bere Island Projects Group for access to Lonehort Battery is being actively processed by the Department. In advance of the legal indentures being finalised, I have instructed the officials to issue a letter of comfort to the organisation confirming that it is intended to renew the licence on the same terms as previously agreed.

Deputy O'Sullivan has been raising this issue with me for quite some time. It is a very good project and I pay tribute to the group for the work it does. I recommend people to pay a visit to Bere Island if the weather improves.

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