asked the Minister for Defence if it is intended to release the old barracks building at Newbridge, County Kildare to the Office of Public Works and thus make it possible to dispose of the building to the Newbridge Town Commissioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Civil Defence equipment is at present stored in the premises referred to in the Deputy's question. Arrangements are being made to transfer this equipment to the Curragh Training Camp and when the transfer has been completed my Department will release the premises to the Office of Public Works.