Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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368. To ask the Minister for Defence his priorities for the future of Columb Barracks, Mullingar, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1351/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Following the closure of Columb Barracks, Government Departments and other Public Bodies were invited to identify any interest in the property. No such interest was expressed. Consequently a portion of the former barracks has been licensed by my Department to Westmeath GAA Board for use as a training centre. Discussions are at an advanced stage with the Board in relation to the possible lease of a more substantial part of the facility and these discussions should be completed soon.The former barracks is also currently used by An Garda Síochána and the Customs Service for training purposes and these arrangements will remain in place.

Recently a number of other organisations and individuals have also made enquiries/suggestions as to the possible use of the barracks. These include the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and the Courts Service.

All these possibilities are currently being looked at in the context of an overall plan for the barracks under a long term lease with Westmeath GAA Board. I expect that these arrangements will be finalised over the coming weeks.

Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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369. To ask the Minister for Defence his priorities for the future of Custume Barracks, Athlone, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1352/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Department of Defence is engaged in an ongoing capital building programme designed to modernise and enhance the training, operational and accommodation facilities available to members of the Defence Forces. Under this programme there has been considerable capital investment at Custume Barracks, Athlone in recent years, amounting to some €6.38m from 2009 to date. The most recent major projects undertaken at the barracks include investment of €932,000 in the construction of Armoured Vehicle Garaging facilities, €1.8 million investment in a Gymnasium and an upgrading of gas and water main facilities including the provision of new underground services and associated works, at a cost of €597,000.

In addition to the major capital projects as outlined above, there are ongoing works required to ensure the upkeep and repair of buildings and provide facilities generally for personnel.

Custume Barracks is and will continue to be an important operational military barracks. This is evidenced by ongoing investment and upgrades to the barracks.