Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Question 109: To ask the Minister for Defence when it is planned to close St. Bricin's military hospital; his plans for the future use of the site; if the medical facilities offered at the hospital will be provided elsewhere; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42763/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the implementation of the Government decision to relocate the Defence Forces HQ under decentralisation, services currently provided by St Bricins Military Hospital will transfer to the Curragh. St Bricins will remain in operation as a military medical facility (MMF) serving the Eastern Brigade until a modern facility suitable for the Brigade is provided. Planning for the new facility has just begun and, as such, it is not possible to state when exactly it will come on line.

It is my intention that the best possible medical facilities are provided for the Defence Forces. I can assure the Deputy that the planned changes in the way medical services are provided are designed to enhance the services for all concerned. It is anticipated that St. Bricins will be disposed of, taking account of market conditions, so as to maximise the return to the Defence Forces and generate funding for reinvestment in Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure in accordance with Government policy.