'That should seriously concern the government': Rise in Defence Forces personnel living in Cork's military bases

A record number of Defence Forces personnel are living in Cork’s two military installations, as many of them can’t afford huge rents in the city and surrounding areas.

More than 500 members are living at Collins Barracks in the city and at the navy base in Haulbowline, according to figures released by the Minister for Defence Helen McEntee via a Dáil question to Social Democrats TD Liam Quaide.

Mr Quaide described that as “a very significant number” and suggested that many soldiers and sailors may be relying on barrack accommodation because the cost of renting in the city and in Carrigaline, Cobh and Ringaskiddy, close to the naval base, have become out of reach.

“That should seriously concern the government. People serving in the Defence Forces should not be left in a position where living in a barracks becomes the only realistic way to keep a roof over their heads. Barracks accommodation has an important operational role, but it should not become a substitute for tackling the wider cost-of-living and housing pressures bearing down on our military personnel and their families,” Mr Quaide said.

He said Ms McEntee pointed to completed projects since 2020, including a new accommodation block in Collins Barracks and refurbishment works at a Victorian-era block in Haulbowline. 

These resulted in 185 new beds being provided at a cost of approximately €16.8 million.

“This is not just an infrastructure issue. It is a cost-of-living issue, a housing issue, and a retention issue and at the centre of it are serving personnel who deserve far better,” Mr Quaide said.

Depending on rank, pay, and the conditions of the accommodation, young soldiers and sailors are on average paying less than €50 a week in total for accommodation and their food in barracks accommodation.

There are other incentives to living in, as there are gymnasiums, sports pitches and bars in the military installations. 

A Defence Forces spokesman said: “Living-in accommodation continues to provide an important option for many younger members of the Defence Forces. Personnel who avail of barrack accommodation benefit from subsidised lodging and meals."