Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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56. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the engagement his Department has undertaken, or plans to undertake, with the Department of Education and Skills regarding the use of Columb Barracks. Mullingar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39653/16]

Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Following the closure of Columb Barracks in 2012, my Department has explored a number of avenues to try and secure the long term future of the former barracks for the benefit of the local community. Government Departments and other Public Bodies, including Westmeath County Council, have been invited to declare any interest in acquiring the property. No such interest was expressed at that time. Recently Officials from my Department met with the CEO and officials of Longford and Westmeath Educational and Training Board regarding possible use of Mullingar Barracks. The meeting included a visit to the Barracks. To date I have received no proposals from the Board regarding their future use of the barracks.

While the Department supports the ongoing use of the Barracks by the Public Sector on behalf of 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.

I would be happy to receive proposals from the Department of Education and Skills regarding 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.