Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 484: To ask the Minister for Defence the plans he has in place to deal with emergencies in south Tipperary, Clonmel and west Waterford, such as major floods and severe ice, in view of the planned closure of Kickham Barracks and the redeployment of the troops; and if he will report on the tests that have been carried out regarding same. [16520/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Whilst the Defence Forces are not a Principal Response Agency, as defined in the Framework for Major Emergency Management, they will continue to provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate lead Agency in the event of a severe weather emergency in an Aid to the Civil Authority (ATCA) role. In planning for the closure of Kickham Barracks, Clonmel, the existing boundaries between the 12th Infantry Battalion (headquartered in Limerick) and the 3rd Infantry Battalion (headquartered in Kilkenny) were realigned. As a result, the 3rd Infantry Battalion is now responsible for providing ATCA support in South Tipperary and West Waterford.

To formalise plans for the realignment, the Defence Forces recently met with the Health Service Executive (HSE), An Garda Síochána and the relevant local authorities. Detailed briefings have now taken place and key contacts established. Responses to previous severe weather events were also discussed as were contingency plans for possible future emergencies.

In terms of testing responses to potential emergencies, an air reconnaissance was recently conducted by the 3rd Infantry Battalion in their new area of responsibility in order to augment planning that has been carried out on the ground. I am satisfied that the adjustments made and the level of planning carried out as a result of the closure of Kickham Barracks will ensure that the Defence Forces will provide the fullest possible assistance if and when required to do so.

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 485: To ask the Minister for Defence his plans for the accommodation area of the Curragh Camp; if he will consider its renovation in view of the shortage of housing in many areas in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16531/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am not aware which area of the Curragh Camp the Deputy is referring to or what specific proposals she may have in mind. My Department does not have a role in the provision of housing accommodation for the general public.