Local election candidate Joe Malone has said that the future of Kilkenny Army Barracks is safe following his meeting with Defence Minister Willie O'Dea last week.
Mr Malone travelled to Leinster House on Thursday to meet with Minister O'Dea in a bid to discuss the safety of the future of the barracks
The FF candidate outlined the importance of Kilkenny Army Barracks with the aim of securing a commitment from the Minister that the barracks will not close down. His efforts were successful and the Minister said that he recognised the importance of the barracks to Kilkenny and those associated with it.
"The barracks is of huge importance to local communities and for all the people associated with it. Some 360 people work there, plus 122 in the Reserve Defence Force, 15 CADRE and 10 civilians. It is worth between €6 and €8 million to the local economy and I'm delighted with the minister’s response," said Mr Malone.
Mr Malone spent almost 30 years in the army, was an active member of PDFORRA (Representative Association ) and was a local and regional welfare officer for many years. He is adamant that the barracks should remain open and has welcomed the commitment from Minister Willie O'Dea.
