Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 388: To ask the Minister for Defence his plans for St. Bricin's Military Hospital, Dublin 7; if the hospital is to be closed down; the action which will be taken regarding the buildings and land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46054/08]

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 Bricin's Military Hospital will transfer to the Curragh.

St Bricin's 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. Bricin's 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.