James Geoghegan (Dublin Bay South, Fine Gael)
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25. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence when he expects the report by the Defence Forces in relation to the suitability for renovation of the derelict homes owned by his Department at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6098/25]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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My Department was notified in July 2024 that the properties in question were being considered for inclusion on the derelict sites register. My officials have been engaged with Dublin City Council to clarify the position with these properties.

One house, number 18, is currently occupied. Of the remainder, I must add that none of these properties can be occupied without considerable refurbishment and were built before the Building Regulations and associated standards arising from same came into effect.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Department has previously transferred properties outside of military installations to the relevant Local Authorities, as the relevant housing authorities. My Department has previously met with Dublin City Council with a view to transferring the properties in question to the local authority and this offer remains open.

I want to assure the Deputy that I intend to overhaul the condition of the vacant housing stock, in so far as possible, to increase the provision of accommodation for serving personnel. In this regard, the Deputy may also be aware that the Defence Forces commissioned Consultants to assess the condition of the Defence Forces vacant housing stock and its suitability for conversion/refurbishment to provide for additional single living-in accommodation for Defence Force personnel. A report has recently been submitted to my Department for its assessment. Once my officials and the Defence Forces have considered the contents, they will submit recommendations to me on the remediation programme to be undertaken.