Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2024
149. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the steps being taken to address the housing needs of Defence Forces personnel stationed in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42557/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of local authority, social and/or affordable housing is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government. It has also been a long standing established policy, since the late 1990's, to withdraw from the provision of housing quarters for Defence Forces personnel. This policy has been given effect on a gradual basis and long term accommodation is no longer provided. I am pleased to report that, in my tenure, significant investments have been made to improve the Defence Forces built infrastructure, particularly in the prioritised expansion of accommodation in recent years.
The Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out a programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027. As part of the implementation of this Plan we have to date provided some 365 bed spaces at various locations most notably the complete renovation of the derelict Block 8 in Haulbowline, the upgrading of accommodation in Cathal Brugha, Baldonnel and the Curragh Camp.
The Deputy may also wish to know that the following additional capital works for the DFTC accommodation are included in the IDP and are at various stages of design, procurement and construction:
• Refurbishment of 1 Accommodation Block Ceannt Barracks
• New Student Accommodation Facility.
