Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 21: To ask the Minister for Defence the rationale behind closing Kickham Barracks in the context of remarks made by a spokesperson in relation to the importance of Kilkenny Barracks remaining open. [14027/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

As I have previously outlined to the House the consolidation of the Defence Forces formations into a smaller number of locations is a key objective in the ongoing defence modernisation programme and has been recommended in many reports over the past number of years. This was a key consideration of Government in addressing this issue as releasing personnel from security and support functions enables the operational capacity of the Defence Forces to be maintained notwithstanding the fall in strength.

As with previous rounds of consolidation under the Defence Forces modernisation programme any barracks, once vacated, will be disposed of with the proceeds being used to fund the upgrading of Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure. Since the announcement of the Government decision on barrack closures the Department of Defence has written to each Government Department and various agencies and local authorities seeking expressions of interest in acquiring any of the properties to benefit the local community as a whole but with particular emphasis on job creation measures.

There have been preliminary discussions between officials of the Department and some other State agencies in relation to Kickham Barracks Clonmel but these discussions are at early stages. I can assure the Deputy that every effort will be made to dispose of the barracks so as to maximise the benefits to the local community.