James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 155: To ask the Minister for Defence the position regarding plans for the future of Connolly Barracks, Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18099/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Since the mid 1990s the Department of Defence has been engaged in a programme of disposing of surplus properties and using the proceeds for reinvestment in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces. The former Connolly Barracks is one such property. I wish to advise the Deputy that I have received no proposal in relation to Connolly Barracks. The Midland Regional Authority undertook a feasibility study into the possible use of the former barracks for a range of activities. The acceptance and implementation of the recommendations of the Connolly Barracks Feasibility Study is a matter for the two Local Authorities who commissioned the study. The Department has no role in this regard. I understand that the Local Authorities are still considering the report and the challenges in providing funding for the acquisition of the barracks. In that context Longford County Council has expressed some interest in acquiring the Barracks and discussions with the Council are at a preliminary stage. In the event of these discussions not reaching a satisfactory outcome Connolly Barracks will be disposed of taking account of the market conditions so as to maximise the return to the Defence Forces.

In the meantime the Departmental officials concerned have been in contact with the County Council to see if a basis exists to bring the discussions to a mutually satisfactory conclusion. These discussions will be advanced once the Authorities have completed its consideration of the report.