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Press Release 29th October 2010

Minister Killeen visits Dún Uí Néill Barracks in Cavan


The Minister for Defence, Mr Tony Killeen TD, today (Friday 29th October) paid his first official visit to Dún Uí Néill Barracks in Cavan. On arrival at Dún Uí Néill, the Minister was greeted by the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Sean McCann, General Officer Commanding the Western Brigade, Brigadier General Gerry Hegarty and the Officer Commanding the Barracks, Comdt Brian Fitzsimons.

Minister Killeen reviewed a Guard of Honour of members of “A” Company 6th Infantry Battalion and was then briefed by senior military personnel and shown around the facilities at the Barracks. The Minister met with members of the 6th Infantry Battalion and Sp Company of the 56th Infantry Battalion. There are currently 137 personnel based in Dún Uí Néill.

Dún Uí Néill Barracks was first opened on the 14 September 1990. It was named after Owen Roe O Neill, nephew of Hugh O Neill, who was involved in Flight of the Earls 1607. O’Neill took command of the Northern Command in the Irish Confederate Wars on his return to Ireland after gaining experience in the Spanish Army.

Speaking during the visit the Minister said “The role of the Defence Forces in the security of strategic installations, cash-in-transit duties, prison and prisoner security and aid to the civil authorities is very important to the safety of our citizens. In 52 years of peacekeeping in some of the most hostile regions of the world, the Defence Forces have saved countless lives and made a significant contribution to international peace and security.”

The personnel at Dún Uí Néill make an important and positive contribution to the tasks performed by the Western Brigade. In addition, the troops serving in Dún Uí Néill have assisted the local community on many occasions by providing emergency assistance in an effort to alleviate the problems caused by adverse weather conditions.

Dún Uí Néill continues to enjoy a long and historic association with Cavan and is involved in various community activities.


ENDS

For further information please contact: Derval Monahan Press Adviser to Minister Killeen, Department of Defence, on Mobile + 353876781608 or Department of Defence Press Office (01) 804 2108 or Press Office Mobile +365387234 0397.

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