Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 323: To ask the Minister for Defence the position of the decentralisation of the Army headquarters to the Curragh; the proposals dates for commencement of the operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27014/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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The Defence Forces headquarters decentralisation implementation group is planning for the relocation of those elements of the headquarters that will be relocated to the Curragh. Some elements of Defence Forces headquarters will also be relocated to Newbridge with my Department.

Plans for the decentralisation of Defence Forces headquarters are progressing. A site within Defence Forces property in the Curragh has been selected and there is ongoing liaison between the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Office of Public Works.

It is expected that a preliminary layout for the building will be presented shortly by the Office of Public Works. Once this is agreed, notification to the local authority pursuant to the Planning and Development Act 2001, preparation of detailed specifications and invitation to tenders will follow. The project is expected to go on site in nine to 12 months.