I assume that by vacant properties the Deputy is referring to residential properties. There are seventy-eight (78) vacant residential type properties under the remit of my Department. I am advised that none of these properties can be occupied without considerable refurbishment and were built before the Building Regulations and associated standards arising from same came into effect.
A consultant was commissioned by the Defence Forces to assess the condition of the vacant housing in barracks and its suitability for conversion/refurbishment to provide for additional single living-in accommodation for Defence Force personnel, this report was recently received in the Department and my officials will submit recommendations to me shortly on the remediation programme to be undertaken.