168. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Defence for a report on the proposed new military equipment store, locker block and ablution facility at Stephens Barracks. [53703/26]

I thank the Deputy for his interest in the development of Stephens Barracks and for the opportunity to discuss the progress that has been made there. The Deputy may wish to note that the project to which he refers has progressed to a detailed design which is required before proceeding to a tender competition and is currently being progressed by an external Design Team.

In addition, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the following capital works have been completed to date in the barracks since the launch of the Infrastructure Development Plan, bringing the total investment in Stephen Barracks to over €5m:

* New Barrack Accountant Store

* Refurbishment Block C

* Underground Services and watermain replacement

* New Gymnasium