72 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Defence the number of overholders in Defence Forces residential accommodation; his plans for the future of overholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4662/02]

There are a total of 87 overholders currently in occupation of married quarters. This figure includes 29 overholders who are in the process of purchasing the quarters in which they are residing – 19 of these are located at Orchard Park, The Curragh, County Kildare and ten at Cathal Brugha Barracks, Rathmines, Dublin 6.

My Department's policy with regard to overholding provides for existing overholders to be dealt with on a case by case basis in order to determine if the individuals concerned are capable of providing for the cost of their own accommodation needs. The Deputy may be assured that the policy is being managed in a sensitive manner with particular attention being given to hardship cases.

The primary responsibility for housing rests with the local authorities and my Department will continue to work with them with a view to arranging for alternative accommodation to be provided for overholders. The Deputy will appreciate, however, that married quarters are required for serving members of the Permanent Defence Force and the existing situation with regard to the overholding of quarters cannot be allowed to continue indefinitely.