Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

Senator Coghlan referred to Mr. David Cooney, the appointed ambassador to the Holy See. The Senator advises festina lente - that we would tread carefully and act slowly on that. We have addressed the question of the embassies on a number of occasions at this stage. Hopefully, we will have the Tánaiste in the House to address the questions that have been raised by Senators.

Senator Wilson asked about the criteria used to close barracks and, with Senator Ó Murchú, asked that the Minister for Defence would come to the House. The purpose of the decision to close barracks is to maximise the effectiveness of the Defence Forces by removing the burden imposed by manning and maintaining unnecessary installations. The consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective of the ongoing defence modernisation programme in order to maximise the effectiveness of the Defence Forces and has been recommended in many reports over recent years.

In recent weeks, the Minister has met individual Members of the Oireachtas, who put forward very strongly held views as to why particular barracks should be retained. He also met a number of delegations made up of a wide spectrum of interest groups from Cavan, Clonmel and Mullingar. The Minister has reflected carefully and at length on the sincere and genuine concerns raised by those delegations, particularly the wives of serving personnel. He wishes to acknowledge the sincerity and courtesy of the people he met. However, the Minister is obliged to take a broader view and must consider the overall needs and organisation of the Defence Forces, not just for today but for the years ahead. It is in this context that the consolidation of the Defence Forces into a smaller number of locations must be and has been addressed.

Senator Gilroy spoke about honour in politics and made some very valid points in that regard. A number of other Senators spoke but I do not intend to reply as they are no longer present. Senator Comiskey raised the issue of grant aid for communities in excess of €200,000 requiring clearance from Brussels. We will seek clarification for the Senator on that point.

Senator Mooney raised the important question of our relationship with Germany. The relationship has improved significantly in recent months and it is very important that we would maintain relationships with Germany.

Senator Mullins spoke about the drugs problem. We will arrange to have a debate with the relevant Minister in early course on that matter.