Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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102. To ask the Minister for Defence to carry out a feasibility study and investigate possible future uses of this facility of Columb Military Barracks in Mullingar, County Westmeath. [3360/16]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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As I mentioned to the Deputy yesterday Officials from the Department are scheduled to meet with the CEO of Westmeath County Council later this week to discuss the long-term future plans for the Barracks. I would hope that some progress can be made to determine the future direction for the Barracks. I would also be happy to discuss, with any interested group, any proposals they may have for the possible purchase and future development of the site for the benefit of the local community. This is in keeping with the Department’s policy to dispose of surplus property no longer required for military purposes. While the Department supports the ongoing use of the Barracks by the local community, the current financial and administrative burden resulting from the retention of the Barracks cannot be sustained given that the Barracks is no longer required for military purposes.