Seanad to debate the future of Cavan Army Barracks – Wilson

FF appeals to Senators to back motion protecting army barracks

Seanad Éireann will this week debate a Fianna Fáil motion opposing the closure of of Dún Úi Neill barracks in Cavan and condemning the unnecessary closure of any other key army facility around the country.

Fianna Fáil Group Whip in the Seanad, Senator Diarmuid Wilson, has appealed to Senators on all sides to use this opportunity to stand up for their local barracks and recognise the important role these facilities play in communities around the country.

Senator Wilson said: “Dún Ní Neill barracks is little over 20 years old and is one of the most modern, purpose built military barracks in Europe. Built by Fianna Fáil in Government, it has become a focal point of life in Co Cavan contributes over €3 million annually to the local economy and plays a crucial role in the community.

“While a number of barracks were closed in the past due to the changing security situation in Northern Ireland, there is absolutely no need to shut down any more. Not only would there be no financial gain by closing the barracks in Cavan, there would be an inevitable impact on jobs and the local economy. The barracks generates a demand for local goods and services and the soldiers and their families are valued members of our community.

“It is quite clear now that the Government plans to shut down a number of key army barracks around the country, including Dún Úi Neill barracks in Cavan, Columb Barracks in Mullingar and Kickham barracks Clonmel. On behalf of the Fianna Fáil group of Senators, I will introduce a motion in the Seanad this week opposing these attempted closures and asking the Seanad to recognise the crucial role of these facilities.

“The Government has already voted down a similar Fianna Fáil motion in the Dáil two weeks ago, despite clear opposition to the move within the Government ranks. I am hoping that the motion in the Seanad this week will give Government Senators the opportunity to set out their stall on this important issue.”

FF appeals to Senators to back motion protecting army barracks

Seanad Éireann will this week debate a Fianna Fáil motion opposing the closure of of Dún Úi Neill barracks in Cavan and condemning the unnecessary closure of any other key army facility around the country.

Fianna Fáil Group Whip in the Seanad, Senator Diarmuid Wilson, has appealed to Senators on all sides to use this opportunity to stand up for their local barracks and recognise the important role these facilities play in communities around the country.

Senator Wilson said: “Dún Ní Neill barracks is little over 20 years old and is one of the most modern, purpose built military barracks in Europe. Built by Fianna Fáil in Government, it has become a focal point of life in Co Cavan contributes over €3 million annually to the local economy and plays a crucial role in the community.

“While a number of barracks were closed in the past due to the changing security situation in Northern Ireland, there is absolutely no need to shut down any more. Not only would there be no financial gain by closing the barracks in Cavan, there would be an inevitable impact on jobs and the local economy. The barracks generates a demand for local goods and services and the soldiers and their families are valued members of our community.

“It is quite clear now that the Government plans to shut down a number of key army barracks around the country, including Dún Úi Neill barracks in Cavan, Columb Barracks in Mullingar and Kickham barracks Clonmel. On behalf of the Fianna Fáil group of Senators, I will introduce a motion in the Seanad this week opposing these attempted closures and asking the Seanad to recognise the crucial role of these facilities.

“The Government has already voted down a similar Fianna Fáil motion in the Dáil two weeks ago, despite clear opposition to the move within the Government ranks. I am hoping that the motion in the Seanad this week will give Government Senators the opportunity to set out their stall on this important issue.”