Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 398: To ask the Minister for Defence his proposals for the future of the military barracks in Castlebar, County Mayo; the number of Defence Forces personnel stationed at same; if he plans to continue to have Defence Forces personnel serve at the barracks in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17062/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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Castlebar military barracks is primarily a reserve Defence Force facility and provides training facilities, office accommodation and storage facilities for Permanent Defence Force cadre and unit personnel of units stationed in the barracks. I have no plans to change the current position, as previously outlined.

On 26 July 2004 my predecessor, Deputy Michael Smith, officially launched the reserve Defence Force review implementation plan which is part of the process that will change the structure and configuration of the reserve while preserving its traditional strengths. These include the spirit of voluntary commitment, the maintaining of strong links with local communities and a nationwide geographical spread.

On foot of this plan, company headquarters and A company of the new 51st infantry battalion will be located in Castlebar military barracks. The military authorities have informed me there are 15 Permanent Defence Force personnel stationed in Castlebar military barracks and that Defence Force personnel will continue to serve at this location.