I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle and apologise. I ask the Tánaiste for an update on the proposed closure of the fire station at the Curragh Camp and also provide an update on the provision of living quarters for enlisted members in the Curragh.
Sentiment score: 0.14
The Curragh Camp is the jewel in the crown of the Defence Forces, as I and many Members of this House and the Upper House have said many times. The first thing anyone who drives through the Curragh Camp will notice is dereliction and the closed premises on the main street. The news that the fire station is to close has been greeted with disbelief by people who live in the Curragh because it seems to sound the death knell for the Curragh Camp. I ask the Tánaiste to outline his plans, as the incoming Minister for Defence, to ensure the Curragh Camp survives and becomes the jewel in the crown of the Defence Forces again. With regard to married quarters and encouraging members of the Defence Forces to continue in the Defence Forces, I am currently dealing with three families who cannot find accommodation in County Kildare. They are members of the Defence Forces, but they are finding it difficult. The issue facing them is whether to continue in the Defence Forces, yet I know of 83 derelict houses in the Curragh Camp.
Sentiment score: 0.11
I welcome that the Tánaiste will visit the Curragh Camp. That is very important. I will take him up on his request that I accompany him on that visit because it will be important that we meet local representatives who are getting this on the ground from those who live in the Curragh and who have previously, as the Tánaiste said, served on the Curragh. The State needs to use the Curragh Camp and the Curragh itself more. I ask the Tánaiste to look at other Government agencies. The Curragh Camp is right next to the M7 motorway and is a great facility. We should be expanding it at this stage, not looking at stages where we need investment in the Curragh Camp. I have spoken to a number of other local agencies throughout Kildare that would love to be able to use the Curragh Camp. We need to discuss trying to expand the military facilities on the Curragh and including other agencies that are crying out for space in County Kildare. I look forward to a meeting on the Curragh and to further discussing its future with the Tánaiste.
Sentiment score: 0.20