David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 449: To ask the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 178 of 25 June 2009, his views on handing over a hall (details supplied) in County Cork to the local community for use as a youth centre for the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27504/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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It is anticipated that this property will be disposed of, taking account of the 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. Significant progress has been achieved over the past decade in re-equipping and developing Defence Forces capabilities, using the proceeds from the sales of surplus properties and we need to ensure that this progress is continued. Having regard to the investment needs of the Defence Forces and given the current economic circumstances, it is important that my Department realises the full commercial value of the current properties. It would not therefore be possible to make the property available in the manner the Deputy suggests.

Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 450: To ask the Minister for Defence the number of properties his Department has paid rent on in the past three years; if the rent on such properties is fixed; if such rents have been reviewed in the past year; if he has tried to negotiate the cost of rent downwards in the past year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27589/09]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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My Department rents 52 properties to cater for the needs of the Reserve Defence Force. The majority of the rents are fixed and the leases do not contain a rent review clause. Those leases that are subject to a rent review would have the method of the review set out in the lease and it may not be possible to negotiate the rent downwards. However, my Department, in conjunction with the Military Authorities, continuously monitors the need and usage of such premises and reviews the rental and lease arrangements on an ongoing basis so as to ensure value for money.