106. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence when upgrade and refurbishment works to the cookhouse and dining hall at Custume Barracks, Athlone, will commence and be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43616/19]

As part of the ongoing Capital Building Programme designed to modernise and enhance the training, operational and accommodation facilities available to members of the Defence Forces, it was recognised the need to refurbish and upgrade the existing Dining Hall at Custume Barracks for the purpose of providing a modern kitchen and dining facility to accommodate all ranks stationed at the Barracks.

The main works contract, valued at €4.1m,  was awarded in October 2018 to Bourke Builders Ltd, who were successful in a highly competitive tender competition.  Works started on site in October 2018 and are scheduled to be finished by the end of this year.