Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. I know this one well because we have met with Ranelagh Gaels on a number of occasions in recent months. I thank him for the work he has been doing with them. The Defence Forces facilities that we have are, of course, primarily for our Defence Forces but where it makes sense to make parts of that available for community use for sports use and for our young people then we should do that as well. The Deputy will be aware there is a long-standing policy of my Department and the Defence Forces of allowing, where possible and appropriate, third parties to access Defence Forces facilities and properties to support local communities. It also raises in a positive way the profile of our Defence Forces among the general public. This policy does extend to a wide number of groups and activities, including GAA clubs, soccer clubs and numerous community groups across our country.

While the Defence Forces use the pitch facilities for their own activities, I am pleased that currently a number of schools and sports clubs in the local community surrounding Cathal Brugha Barracks have arrangements in place for the usage of the playing pitches within the barracks outside of those times. In that regard the all-weather pitch is currently being used by the community for a total of 27 hours per week, while the GAA playing pitch is used by two local sports clubs - Ranelagh Gaels and Portobello GAA - for a total of 28.5 hours per week.

I take the point of trying to agree a longer-term arrangement, which I believe is where the clubs want to get to. I am very supportive of that I will work with the Deputy on that. I am pleased that my officials are currently in engagement or negotiation with Ranelagh Gales and Portobello GAA with a view to try to put in place a longer-term arrangement for the use of the GAA pitch, which would allow for enhanced development with regard to lighting, changing facilities, and the condition of the pitch. People need to know they are going to have the use of it on a longer term basis for them to make these planning decisions.

I assure the Deputy that my Department is absolutely committed to ongoing positive engagement with the clubs and with local schools to ensure the use of those military facilities where possible.

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