Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Wall for raising this matter. I share his view that the Curragh is the jewel in the crown. There is a particular affinity and connection felt by many serving and former members of the Defence Forces and their families. I hope to visit the Curragh in the coming days. I would be delighted if Deputy Wall could join me when I do that. We can engage with people on the ground. I will endeavour to get there this month.

On the fire station decision, I will come back to the Deputy once the loop has been closed by the military authorities in terms of them having undertaken what they said they would do with regard to Kildare County Council and the like. I am excited, though, about the prospect of looking at the issue of vacant housing in the barracks and how we can convert and refurbish some of it and provide for additional accommodation for Defence Forces personnel. I look forward to getting those recommendations. I take the point, from a retention and recruitment point of view, that there is a clear link with the provision of accommodation. We will keep working on that.

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