Minister quells rumours of Custume Barracks closure – McFadden

Fine Gael TD for Longford/Westmeath, Gabrielle McFadden, this week questioned the Minister of State at the Department of Defence, Paul Keogh TD, in the Dáil about widespread concerns relating to the possible closure of Custume Barracks.

Responding to Deputy McFadden, Minister Keogh stated unequivocally that the Barracks will not be closing and went as far as saying:

“Let me state to the local newspapers in Athlone and Roscommon that I hope they will give the same headlines to the statement I made today as they did to the rumours last week. I am pleased to reaffirm the Government’s commitment to Custume Barracks in Athlone.”

Deputy McFadden also addressed the issue of the downgrading of the barracks, asking the Minister for clarity on the reasons behind the downgrade as this was never fully explained: ‘During her time as a TD, my sister Nicky objected strongly to the downgrading of Custume barracks. As our grandfather was a Sergeant Major our family were always very aware of the strong tradition of service in Athlone, and of the pride associated with the Western Brigade’.

“The Minister outlined in his response to me that the withdrawal of brigade status took place to achieve a more effective and efficient organisational arrangement. The original Permanent Defence Force (PDF), designed in the 1990s, had a strength ceiling of 11,500 personnel, but this number is now 9,500. Therefore operating three brigades was no longer efficient.

“As of 30th April 2014, the latest date for which figures are available, the number of personnel whose home station was Custume Barracks stood at 920. However, it should be noted that recruitment to the Defence Forces is ongoing.

“I was also pleased to learn that a capital building programme designed to modernise and enhance facilities available to members of the Defence Forces has resulted in significant investment in Custume Barracks in recent years. I see this as a vote of confidence in the personnel based in Athlone.

“Recent major projects undertaken include the construction of armoured vehicle garaging facilities, a gym and an upgrading of gas and water main facilities, including the provision of new underground services.

“Uncertainty and unanswered questions cause anxiety in the community. I am satisfied that Custume Barracks continues to be an important operational military barracks following the re-organisation of the Defence Forces and that there are no plans to change this.”

Ends