Local politicians meet minister over Athlone's army future

A group of local representatives today (Thursday) met with Defence Minister Simon Coveney to discuss the future of Custume Barracks in Athlone.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Athlone Fine Gael TD Gabrielle McFadden said Mr Coveney 'reiterated his commitment to Custume Barracks.'

However, the Minister also said once again that the downgrading of the barracks in 2012 - when the Athlone-based Fourth Western Brigade was abolished - will not be reversed.

At the cross-party meeting, which took place at the Department of Defence, Westmeath County Council was represented by Mayor Tom Farrell, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke, Cllr Boxer Moran and Cllr Paul Hogan. Roscommon County Council was represented by Cllr Ivan Connaughton, Cllr Tony Ward and Cllr John Naughten.

“Minister Coveney told the councillors that he is asked by me on an almost daily basis as to the need to ensure the long-term future of Custume Barracks for Athlone and the region,' said Deputy McFadden.

“The Minister repeated his commitment to the barracks at today's meeting and informed the delegation that the restructuring was over, and accordingly, there would be no more changes.

“He also said that it was military advice that the two-brigade structure would stay in place and said it is a structure that is working.

“Minister Coveney pointed out to the councillors that while the White Paper is a 10 year plan for the Defence Forces, he is not opposed to a mid-term of review of the structures of the Defence Forces.

“During the discussions, the delegation was told that the permanent air ambulance service, based at the Barracks, was working very well and saving lives across the region.

“The Minister said he would also get his officials to look at the the possibility of the planned Military Museum at Custume Barracks opening to the public on certain days,” she concluded.