asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider the posting of a unit of the Defence Forces in Tralee, County Kerry, where there is adequate accommodation.

Dún Laoghaire): Personnel and units of the Defence Forces are deployed in the interests of the overall effectiveness of the forces. There are no plans at present to increase the number of personnel based in Tralee. County Kerry.

There is an excellent Army barracks in Tralee. Will the Minister of State consider at some future date placing a unit of the Army in Tralee?

(Dún Laoghaire): At the moment the barracks in Tralee is the headquarters of the 15th Battalion of the FCA and is used quite extensively during the summer months. It is also used for training of units of the Permanent Defence Force who are not permanently based there in connection with operations in aid of the civil power. The military authorities have indicated that the present strength, deployment and operation commitment of the Permanent Defence Force will not permit the posting of a unit in Ballymullen Barracks. That is not to say that if things change in future the Deputy's request will not be considered.

I realise that there is much activity in Ballymullen Barracks, Tralee, during the summer for FCA training, but in view of the fact that the barracks is suitable, adequate and has a good deal of space, I request that at some future date a unit of the Army be placed there.

(Dún Laoghaire): I note the Deputy's request.