The Reserve Defence Forces training centre in Co Cavan is to be retained, the Minister of Defence has confirmed.

Minister Paul Keogh said the status of the centre would be maintained and its troops will continue to be given support.

Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan-Monaghan Brendan Smith welcomed the announcement.

He said: "Retaining the Cavan Centre is in the national interest and with uncertainty over the status of the border with Northern Ireland arising from the BREXIT negotiations, it is essential to sustain and support the Defence Forces locally at this time.

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"The Army Reserve Centre in Cavan recruits actively on an annual basis and provides a steady stream of reserve recruits. Many of the Permanent Defence Force soldiers began their careers in a voluntary capacity with the Army Reserve before going on to full-time careers. Members have forged close links with local community groups and their presence in Cavan cannot be underestimated."

(CD/MH)